Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 39

University Student Government

Constitution
University Student Government Constitution 1
De La Salle University – Manila

De La Salle University – Manila


University Student Government
Constitution

CONTENT

Preamble
Article I Name and Seat
Article II Membership
Article III Declaration of Principles, Purposes and Policies
Article IV Bill of Rights
Article V Duties and Responsibilities of Students
Article VI Accountability of USG Officers
Article VII The Executive Board
Article VIII The Executive Committee
Article IX Powers, Duties and Responsibilities of EB Members
Article X The Activities Assembly
Article XI The College Student Government
Article XII The Batch Student Government
Article XIII The Executive Departments
Article XIV The Legislative Assembly
Article XV The LA Committees
Article XVI The LA Inner Circle
Article XVII The College Legislative Board
Article XVIII The Judiciary
Article XIX Constitutional Commissions
Article XX Articles of Impeachment
Article XXI The Council of Student Organizations
Article XXII Convention of Leaders
Article XXIII Elections
Article XXIV Vacancies
Article XXV General Provisions
Article XXVI Amendments
Article XXVII Transitory Provisions
Article XXVIII Separability Clause
Article XXIX Effectivity
Supplementary Guidelines:
 Science &Technology Complex Government
 Resignation Guideline
 Presidential Pardon Guideline
 Magistrate Jurisdiction Guidelines
 Judiciary Impeachment Guidelines
 Qualification and Application Process of Magistrate
 Qualifications for COMELEC and COA commissioners
 Qualifications for Prosecuting and Investigating Officers

Preamble

We, the undergraduate students of De La Salle University - Manila, imploring the aid of the Almighty God and invoking the
patronage of St. John Baptist De La Salle, assert our inherent democratic right to pursue an autonomous and genuine student
government that shall inspire us to become true Lasallian achievers for God and country, reinvigorate our formation as
Lasallians who secure harmony, unity and cooperation among ourselves and with those who, together with us, make up the
Lasallian community of persons, scholars, learners and citizens, commit to the advancement and defense of our rights and
welfare, safeguard the academic freedom and integrity of the University, affirm the student-citizen’s dignity and worth,
promote the common good, actualize our roles as propagandists and catalysts for social change and action, inculcate a social
consciousness that will strike a balance between self and service to others, healthy competition and cooperation, privilege and
responsibility and embody our libertarian ideals, nationalist aspirations and noble vision of a humane and sovereign society
where truth, justice, freedom, love, equality and peace reign, do solemnly ordain and promulgate this Constitution.
University Student Government Constitution 2
De La Salle University – Manila

Article I NAME
AND SEAT

Section 1. The name of this student government, established under this Constitution, shall be known as the De La
Salle University - Manila University Student Government, which shall hereinafter be referred to as the
USG.

Section 2. The seat of the USG shall be in the De La Salle University - Manila, 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila, which
shall hereinafter be referred to as the University.

Article II
MEMBERSHIP

The members of the USG shall be all undergraduate students of the University.

Article III
DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES, PURPOSES AND POLICIES

PRINCIPLES

Section 1. The USG shall have the power of which emanates from the student body. It shall be the sole, unified,
autonomous and democratic representative body of the students.

Section 2. The USG shall recognize the importance of the University’s Mission Statement of “ building a
community of learners and scholars who value the pursuit of new knowledge within the perspective of
Christian ideals and values.”

2.1. The Mission Statement shall serve as the guide of the USG in achieving the collective interest
of the students.
2.2. The USG believes that the true importance of the Mission Statement lies in putting these ideals
into action.

Section 3. The USG is founded on the principles of representation, participatory democracy, decentralization,
collaboration, equitability, accountability, unity and cooperation and efficiency and efficacy in the
delivery of services.

Section 4. The USG shall adhere to the policy of cooperation with other sectors of the Lasallian community.

PURPOSES

Section 4. The USG shall be at the forefront of the students’ struggle for their rights and welfare, as embodied in
Article IV of this Constitution, the University’s Student Charter and the laws of the land.

Section 5. The USG shall help foster the physical, intellectual, moral, cultural, civic, spiritual and political
interests of the students, as long as these are not contrary to the University’s vision and mission.

Section 6. The USG shall develop critical thinking among the studentry and encourage all students to unite
themselves and utilize their knowledge, skills and resources to contribute to nation-building.

Section 7. The USG, recognizing the vital role of the youth in nation-building, shall encourage all students to be
aware and sensitive to the universal needs of their time;

Section 8. The USG shall foster a progressive and innovative academic institution.
University Student Government Constitution 3
De La Salle University – Manila

Section 9. The USG shall be in solidarity with the Filipino people by partaking in the efforts of working towards
genuine freedom and democracy.

POLICIES

Section 10. The USG shall pursue an independent stand, not dictated by any other sector, other than the students.

Section 11. The USG shall value academic freedom, peace based on justice and the equality of gender, religion, and
race.

Section 13. The USG shall encourage student and sectoral organizations to promote the welfare of the students.

Section 14. The USG shall establish and maintain relevant linkages with various offices, sectoral and cause-oriented
groups within and outside the University to create venues for resource-sharing.

Section 15. The USG shall pursue a policy of dialogue with other student governments, movements and the
marginalized sectors of society, consonant with its principles and purposes.

Section 16. The USG shall pursue a Lasallian education that is holistic, competitive and of high standards, ensuring
that it develops Lasallians for the nation. The USG shall also fight for a relevant, nationalistic,
scientific, liberating and mass-oriented system of education.

Section 17. The USG shall struggle against all forms of exploitation, oppression and corruption.

Section 18. The USG shall renounce instruments of policy, activities and undertakings which are violent in nature,
and/or are contrary to the rules and regulations of the University and/or the laws of the land.

Section 19. The USG shall adopt and implement a policy of public disclosure of all its transactions involving the
interest of its members.

Article IV BILL
OF RIGHTS

Section 1. Every student has the right to be properly informed of the programs, rules and regulations and policies
of the academic community.

Section 2. Every student has the right to have access to his/her official records and other pertinent documents and
papers pertaining to official acts, transactions or decisions.

Section 3. Every student has the right to receive professional competence from the faculty and administration.

Section 4. Every student has the right to be academically evaluated based on objective criteria.

Section 5. Every student has the right to conduct scholarly research freely and to publish, discuss and exchange
findings and recommendations for the purpose of academic development.

Section 6. Every student has the right to suffrage.

6.1. Every student has the right to vote for representatives and officers of the USG.
6.2. Every student has the right to exercise other electoral practices.

Section 7. Every student has the right to actively participate in the USG.

Section 8. Every student has the right to recall their representatives from office.
University Student Government Constitution 4
De La Salle University – Manila

Section 9. Every student has the right to proper representation and participation in all policy-making bodies inside
the University.

Section 10. Every student has the right to regular student-faculty and student-administration dialogue.

Section 11. Every student has the right to assemble and to freely and responsibly express their views, opinions and
grievances.

Section 12. Every student has the right to objective presentation and independent operation of the student-controlled
publications, subject to the cannons of responsible journalism.

Section 13. Every student has the right to establish, organize, join and actively participate in clubs, organizations,
groups and other associations for purposes not contrary to existing policies.

Section 14. Every student has the right to due process.

Section 15. Every student has the right to legitimate and responsible use of adequate, safe, clean and efficient school
facilities.

Section 16. Every student has the right to apply for a USG position.

Section 17. All other rights as specified in the Student Handbook and the University’s Student Charter but are not
specified herein are included as rights of the students.

Article V
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS

Section 1. Every student shall observe and uphold the laws of the land, the rules and regulations of the University
as stipulated in the Student Handbook and this Constitution.

Section 2. Every student shall exercise his/her rights responsibly and in good faith.

Section 3. Every student shall uphold the academic integrity of the University, endeavor to achieve academic
excellence and abide by the rules and regulations governing his/her academic responsibilities.

Section 4. Every student shall promote and maintain the peace and tranquility of the University by observing the
rules of discipline and by exerting efforts to attain harmonious relationships with fellow students, the
administrators, the teaching academic staffs and other University personnel.

Section 5. Every student shall uphold, preserve and maintain the integrity of his/her Alma Mater.

Section 6. Every student shall participate actively in civic affairs and in the promotion of the general welfare,
particularly in the social, economic and cultural development of his/her community and in the
attainment of a just, compassionate and orderly society.

Article VI ACCOUNTABILITY OF USG


OFFFICERS

All USG officers shall at all times be accountable to the studentry who they must serve with utmost responsibility,
integrity, loyalty, efficiency and professionalism.

Article VII
THE EXECUTIVE BOARD
University Student Government Constitution 5
De La Salle University – Manila

Section 1. The Executive Board, which shall hereinafter be referred to as EB, shall be the highest governing body
and representative authority of the USG.

Section 2. The EB shall be composed of the:

2.1. President.
2.2. Vice President for Internal Affairs.
2.3. Vice President for External Affairs.
2.4. Executive Secretary.
2.5. Executive Treasurer.

Section 3. The EB shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

3.1. To uphold and enforce the provisions stipulated in this Constitution and its bylaws.
3.2. To outline and enforce basic policies that shall facilitate the performance of its duties and
responsibilities.
3.3. To discuss national, sectoral and university-wide issues and academic-related matters, projects,
programs and campaigns to be presented to the College Presidents.
3.4. To ensure fair, efficient and effective representation in all University committees whose
services and decisions affect the welfare of the students.
3.5. To create departments and ad hoc as may be necessary to discharge its functions.

Section 4. The members of the EB shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 5. Any member of the EB may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 6. The EB shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 7. A final decision must be reached via a majority (50% + 1) of those present. Decisions made outside this
provision are tentative and unofficial until majority of the EB members are informed and have agreed.

Article VIII
THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Section 1. The Executive Committee, which shall hereinafter be referred to as EXECOM, shall be vested with
executive powers.

Section 2. The EXECOM shall be composed of the:

2.1. All the members of the EB.


2.2. All College Presidents.

Section 3. The EXECOM shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

3.1. To discuss and decide on national, sectoral, university-wide issues and academic-related
matters, projects, programs and campaigns for endorsement and final approval of the
Legislative Assembly, whenever necessary.
3.2. To implement all resolutions approved by the Legislative Assembly.
3.3. To issue Executive Orders to the USG in case of a state of emergency and be answerable to the
Legislative Assembly for the consequences thereof.
3.4. To appeal for reconsideration to the Legislative Assembly any approved motion or resolution
upon two-thirds vote of the members of the EXECOM.
University Student Government Constitution 6
De La Salle University – Manila

3.5. To determine the vision and mission of the USG and ensure that resources be made available
towards their attainment.

Section 4. The members of the EXECOM shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 5. Any member of the EXECOM may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 6. The EXECOM shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 7. A final decision can only be reached via a majority vote (50% + 1) of those present. Decisions made
outside this provision are binding and executory unless challenged by an EXECOM member.

Article IX
POWERS, DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF EB MEMBERS

Section 1. The President shall:

1.1. Be the Chief Executive Officer of the USG.


1.2. Be the official spokesperson of the USG at any function, meeting or assembly.
1.3. Preside over the meetings of the EB, EXECOM, USG General Assemblies, Convention of
Leaders and committees under his/her office.
1.4. Have no voting powers but shall have the power to veto policies, resolutions, programs and
projects approved by the EB, EXECOM, the Activities Assembly and the Legislative
Assembly.
1.4.2. The presidential veto must be communicated to the Executive Secretary within three
days of the approval of the policy, resolution, program or project. Otherwise, the
policy, resolution, program or project may be released or implemented.
1.4.3. A two-thirds vote of the remaining EB, EXECOM, the Activities Assembly and the
Legislative Assembly, whichever is concerned, is required to override a presidential
veto.
1.5. Oversee the internal and external affairs of the USG.
1.6. Initiate the implementation of all the decisions of the Legislative Assembly.
1.7. Nominate and appoint the student representatives to external alliances, seminars, sector
organizations, University-wide committees and other functions requiring such representation
and appointment. The order for the nomination and appointment is as follows:
1.7.1. Member/s of the EB.
1.7.2. College President/s.
1.7.3. Legislative Assembly Representative/s.
1.7.4. Batch President/s.
1.7.5. Other USG officer/s.
1.8. Be an ex-officio member of all the committees under the executive arm of the USG.
1.9. Submit to the Legislative Assembly and the Judiciary trimestral reports that shall present and
evaluate the state of the organizational affairs and recommend further actions.
1.10. Monitor, directly or indirectly, the performance of all offices and committees with executive
functions.
1.11. Receive and review periodic reports from each of the EB members, all Executive units, the
Legislative Assembly and the Judiciary.
1.12. Ensure that national, sectoral and University-wide issues be adequately addressed by the USG.
1.13. Represent the USG in sectoral activities within and outside the University.
1.14. Convene the Council of University Representatives (CURE) which shall be composed of all
student representatives to University policy-making bodies.
1.15. Perform other functions to facilitate the discharge of his/her responsibilities or acts prescribed
herein and be answerable to the Legislative Assembly for the consequences of such.
1.15. Be vested with the power to grant presidential pardon to any USG officer found guilty of
violation of this constitution and its bylaws by the Judiciary, provided that the pardon is with
just cause.
University Student Government Constitution 7
De La Salle University – Manila

Section 2. The Vice President for Internal Affairs shall:

2.1. Report directly to the President.


2.2. Be the supervisor and coordinator of the internal affairs of the USG under the direction of the
President.
2.3. Assume the responsibilities of the President in matters concerning internal affairs if the
President is absent or incapacitated or if so directed by the EB.
2.4. Assume automatically the Presidency in the event that such office is permanently vacated.
2.5. Coordinate with the College and Batch Student Governments with regards to internal affairs of
the USG.
2.6. Monitor all internal activities and programs of the College and Batch Student Governments.
2.7. Chair the Activities Assembly.
2.8. Ensure that the USG University-wide activities are prioritized over other student activities.
2.9. Create departments and ad hoc as may be necessary to discharge specific functions of the
internal affairs.
2.10. Supervise the planning and implementation of special projects during celebrations of USG
University-wide weeks and other occasions warranting participation of the USG.
2.11. Address student concerns regarding the operational efficiency and development of physical
facilities in the University.
2.12. Conduct research undertakings on University policies and structures and present results and
recommendations to the EXECOM, Legislative Assembly and/or the University administration.
2.13. Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the EXECOM.

Section 3. The Vice President for External Affairs shall:

3.1. Report directly to the President.


3.2. Be the supervisor and coordinator of the external affairs of the USG under the direction of the
President.
3.3. Assume the responsibilities of the President in matters concerning external affairs if the
President is absent or incapacitated or if so directed by the EB.
3.4. Assume automatically the Presidency in the event that both the Presidency and the Internal
Affairs Vice Presidency are permanently vacated.
3.5. Coordinate with the College and Batch Student Governments with regards to external affairs of
the USG.
3.6. Monitor all external activities and programs of the College and Batch Student Governments.
3.7. Co-chair the Activities Assembly and assume chairmanship if the Vice President for Internal
Affairs is absent or incapacitated or if so directed by the EB.
3.8. Create departments and ad hoc as may be necessary to discharge specific functions of the
external affairs
3.9. Establish liaisons with other student governments and other relevant entities.
3.10. Establish alliances with external entities on specific issues or campaigns as specified by the EB.
3.11. Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the EXECOM.

Section 4. The Executive Secretary shall:

4.1. Report directly to the President.


4.2. Be the Chief Administrative Officer of the USG.
4.3. Take charge of the daily and administrative affairs of the USG.
4.4. Be the official custodian of all records and papers of USG.
4.5. Record all meetings of the EB, EXECOM, USG General Assemblies, Convention of Leaders,
Legislative Assembly and Inner Circle.
4.6. Be responsible for efficient USG office management.
4.7. Be responsible for the training and development and other concerns and needs of USG officers
in the discharge of their duties.
4.8. Handle all correspondences of the EB, both internally and externally.
University Student Government Constitution 8
De La Salle University – Manila

4.9. Coordinate with the other offices to facilitate the maintenance of a complete and effective filing
system of the USG.
4.10. Supervise the information dissemination of the University-wide activities, programs and
campaigns of the USG through publicity, publications and the like.
4.11. Establish programs or projects to obtain regular feedback from the student body.
4.12. Prepare the agenda of meetings of the EB and EXECOM after due consultation with its
members.
4.13. Advise the President on matters of general administration.
4.14. Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the EXECOM.

Section 5. The Executive Treasurer shall:

5.1. Report directly to the President.


5.2. Act as custodian of the USG funds and enforce standard operating procedures within the USG
with regards to the financial system.
5.3. Design and implement a plan for the management of funds under the jurisdiction of the USG.
5.4. Be in charge of the preparation of the annual budget, of which allocation must be given to all
the offices under the structure of the USG, to be approved by the Legislative Assembly.
5.5. Formulate and implement policies and procedures governing the financial resources of the
USG.
5.6. Require financial documents necessary for the maintenance of an effective monitoring system.
5.7. Collect and summarize needed data in the preparation of financial reports dealing with all
phases of the financial, accounting and operating activities of the USG.
5.8. Prepare trimestral financial reports dealing with all phases of the financial activities of the
offices under the USG structure and present such reports to all offices concerned.
5.9. Safeguard cash temporarily on hand and maintain banking connection for the regular deposit
and savings accounts for the USG.
5.10. Monitor fund-raising activities initiated by the offices under the USG.
5.11. Make periodic reviews of the income and expenditure status of each budgetary unit for any
needed remedial action.
5.12. Review and monitor all receipts and disbursements of funds within the USG.
5.13. Prepare an annual financial report of the USG for examination by the EXECOM and
Legislative Assembly and also for audit by the Auditor duly appointed by the Judiciary.
5.14. Perform other such duties and responsibilities related to and/or implied from the above
enumeration of duties and responsibilities.
5.15. Perform other such functions as deemed necessary by the EXECOM.

Article X
THE ACTIVITIES ASSEMBLY

Section 1. The Activities Assembly, which shall hereinafter be referred to as AA, shall be the policy-making arm
concerning activities, projects and programs of the USG.

Section 2. The AA shall be composed of the:

2.1. Vice President for Internal Affairs.


2.2. Vice President for External Affairs.
2.3. All College Presidents.
2.4. All Batch Presidents.

Section 3. The AA shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

3.1. To outline and enforce basic policies and procedures for the efficient and effective
implementation of student activities, projects and programs and enforce these upon the
approval of the EXECOM.
University Student Government Constitution 9
De La Salle University – Manila

3.2. To plan University-wide student activities, projects and programs and assign departments or ad
hoc for the implementation of such upon the approval of the EXECOM.
3.3. To create departments and ad hoc as may be necessary to discharge specific functions of the
AA.
3.4. To discuss and deliberate matters pertaining to activities, projects and programs of the
departments and ad hoc.
3.5. To perform such other functions as deemed necessary by the EXECOM.

Section 4. The members of the AA shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 5. Any member of the AA may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 6. The AA shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 7. A final decision must be reached via a majority (50% + 1) of those present, subject to the decision of the
EXECOM and the Legislative Assembly. Decisions made outside this provision are tentative and
unofficial until majority of the AA members are informed and have agreed.

Article XI
THE COLLEGE STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Section 1. The College Student Government, which shall hereinafter be referred to as CSG, shall be composed of
all undergraduate students of each respective college.

Section 2. The CSG Executive Board, which shall hereinafter be referred to as CSG-EB, shall be the highest
governing body and representative authority of each respective college.

Section 3. The CSG-EB shall be composed of the:

3.1. College President.


3.2. All Batch Presidents from the college.
3.3. All Legislative Assembly Representatives from the college.

Section 4. The CSG-EB shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

4.1. To discuss and decide on matters which are pertinent to their respective college.
4.2. To determine the vision and mission of the CSG and ensure that resources be made available
towards their attainment.
4.3. To outline and enforce basic policies that shall facilitate the performance of their duties and
responsibilities.
4.4. To execute all policies and directives issued by the Legislative Assembly which are pertinent to
each respective college.
4.5. To handle college affairs and the needs of the different majors and batches.
4.6. To organize and implement programs for their particular college.
4.7. To create departments and ad hoc as may be necessary to discharge its functions.
4.8. Prepare a Rules of Internal Governance of the CSG within the framework of this Constitution.

Section 5. The College Presidents shall:

5.1. Report directly to the President


5.2. Discuss and update the EXECOM on college-wide programs and concerns.
5.3. Enforce programs of the EB, upon the approval of the EXECOM, to the college and its batches.
5.4. Spearhead the execution of all policies and directives issued by the Legislative Assembly
which are pertinent to their respective colleges.
5.5. Coordinate with the EXECOM regarding University-wide issues and activities.
University Student Government Constitution 10
De La Salle University – Manila

5.6. Chair the CSG-EB and appoint from its members a replacement in case of their incapacity or
absence.
5.7. Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the EXECOM and the Legislative Assembly.

Section 6. The members of the CSG-EB shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 7. Any member of the CSG-EB may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 8. The CSG-EB shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 9. A final decision must be reached via a majority (50% + 1) of those present. Decisions made outside this
provision are tentative and unofficial until majority of the CSG-EB members are informed and have
agreed.

Article XII
THE BATCH STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Section 1. The Batch Student Government, which shall hereinafter be referred to as BSG, shall be composed of all
undergraduate students of each respective batch of each respective college.

Section 2. The BSG Executive Board, which shall hereinafter be referred to as BSG-EB, shall be the highest
governing body and representative authority of each respective batch of each respective college.

Section 3. The BSG-EB shall be composed of the:

3.1. Batch President.


3.2. Batch Vice-President.
3.3 Legislative Assembly Representative.

Section 4. The BSG-EB shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

4.1. Create committees for the operations of the batch.


4.2. Execute all policies and directives issued by the Legislative Assembly which are pertinent to
the batch.
4.3. Organize and implement programs for the enhancement and development of the batch.
4.4. Participate in the execution of college and University-wide programs as directed by the College
President and AA.
4.5. Encourage batchmates to participate in batch, college and University-wide programs.
4.6. Prepare a Rules of Internal Governance of the BSG within the framework of this Constitution.
4.7. Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the EB and the College President.

Section 5. The Batch Presidents shall:

5.1. Report directly to the College President and President as deemed necessary.
5.2. Represent the BSG in the CSG, AA and other such entities as necessary.
5.3. Discuss and update the CSG on batch-wide programs and concerns.
5.4. Enforce programs of the EB, upon the approval of the EXECOM, to the batch.
5.5. Spearhead the execution of all policies and directives issued by the Legislative Assembly
which are pertinent to their respective batches.
5.6. Coordinate with the College President and EB regarding college and University-wide issues
and activities, respectively.
5.7. Chair the BSG-EB.
5.8. Perform other functions as defined in the Rules of Internal Governance of the BSG and as
deemed necessary by the EB, College President and the Legislative Assembly.

Section 6. The Batch Vice-Presidents shall:


University Student Government Constitution 11
De La Salle University – Manila

6.1. Report directly to the Batch President and College President and President as deemed
necessary.
6.2. Represent the Batch President in other programs and activities and other such entities.
6.3. Discuss and update the CSG on batch-wide programs and concerns in the absence of the Batch
President.
6.4. Assume powers and responsibilities of the Batch President in his/her incapacity or absence.
6.5. Enforce programs of the EB, upon approval of the EXECOM, for the batch.
6.6. Assist the Batch President in the execution of all policies and directives issued by the
Legislative Assembly which are pertinent to their respective batches.
6.7. Chair the BSG-EB in the absence of the Batch President.
6.8. Perform other functions as defined in the Rules of Internal Governance of the BSG and as
deemed necessary by the EB, College President and the Legislative Assembly.

Section 7. The members of the BSG-EB shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 8. Any member of the BSG-EB may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 9. The BSG-EB shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 10. A final decision must be reached via a majority (50% + 1) of those present. Decisions made outside this
provision are tentative and unofficial until majority of the BSG-EB members are informed and have
agreed.

Article XIII
THE EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1. The Executive Departments, which shall hereinafter be referred to as EXEDEP, shall be the standing
committees to aid the USG in addressing specific concerns, issues, projects and programs consonant
with its principles and purposes.

Section 2. The Batch Presidents shall be appointed to EXEDEP, except for the Department of Activity Approval
and Monitoring, and shall be limited to membership to only one EXEDEP. The EB shall assign the
Batch Presidents to the EXEDEP in reference to, but not entirely based upon, the top three choices of
each Batch President and in a manner that the EB deems necessary.

Section 3. Each EXEDEP shall have a Chairperson and a Vice Chairperson, all of whom shall be elected from
among and by the members of the EXEDEP. The members shall determine the manner of election
thereof.

Section 4. The EXEDEP Chairpersons shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

4.1. Report directly to the EB.


4.2. Preside over the meetings of their respective EXEDEP.
4.3. Administer the overall operations of their respective EXEDEP.
4.4. Report to the AA actions on programs and projects referred to their EXEDEP.
4.5. Appoint EXEDEP members to sub-committees as well as delegate EXEDEP tasks to members,
whenever necessary.
4.6. Consolidate the EXEDEP members on matters pertinent to the AA and in their attendance to
AA sessions.
4.7. Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the EB and AA.

Section 5. The EXEDEP Vice Chairpersons shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:
University Student Government Constitution 12
De La Salle University – Manila

5.1. Report directly to the EXEDEP Chairperson.


5.2. Assume the powers and responsibilities of the EXEDEP Chairperson in his/her incapacity or
absence.
5.3. Supervise the EXEDEP programs and projects.
5.4. Assist the EXEDEP Chairperson in supervising the operation of the EXEDEP.
5.5. Perform other functions deemed necessary by the EXEDEP Chairperson or as prescribed within
the rules of their respective EXEDEP.

Section 6. The members of the EXEDEP shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities, other than
those stated in Article XII Section 5 of this Constitution:

6.1. Report directly to the EXEDEP Chairperson.


6.2. Be present and participate actively in all EXEDEP meetings.
6.3. Aid the EXEDEP Vice Chairperson in all programs and projects.
6.4. Perform other functions deemed necessary by the EXEDEP Chairperson or as prescribed within
the rules of their respective EXEDEP.

Section 7. The members of the EXEDEP shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 8. Any member of the EXEDEP may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 9. The EXEDEP shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 10. A final decision must be reached via a majority (50% + 1) of those present. Decisions made outside this
provision are tentative and unofficial until majority of the EXEDEP members are informed and have
agreed.

EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS

Section 11. The EXEDEP prescribed by this Constitution shall be the following:

11.1 Department of Activity Approval and Monitoring.


11.2. Department on Community Development.
11.3. Department on Student Services.
11.4. Department on Advocacy.

DEPARTMENT ON ACTIVITY APPROVAL AND MONITORING

Section 13. The Department of Activity Approval and Monitoring, which shall hereinafter be referred to as DAAM,
shall be the coordinating body of the USG in approving and monitoring student activities.

Section 14. The DAAM shall be chaired by a staff duly appointed by the Vice President for Internal Affairs.

Article XIV
THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

Section 1. The Legislative Assembly, which shall hereinafter be referred to as LA, shall be the highest policy-
making body of the USG. The legislative power shall be vested in the LA, except to the extent reserved
to the people by the provisions on initiative and referendum.

Section 2. The LA shall be composed of the:

2.1. Chief Legislator.


2.2. All LA Representatives.
2.3. Legislative Secretariat.
University Student Government Constitution 13
De La Salle University – Manila

Section 3. The LA shall concern itself with discussing and deciding on the following matters:

3.1. Integral policies, existing operations, projects and programs.


3.2. Resolutions of University-wide, curricular and extra-curricular matters.
3.3. Resolutions on national and sectoral issues.
3.4. Representation of administrative and non-administrative units and committees requiring such
inside the campus.
3.5. Budget allocation of the USG as presented by the Executive Treasurer.
3.6. Creation of standing and ad hoc committees whose functions shall be determined by the body.
3.7. Approval of the Election Code to be adopted by the Commission on Elections.
3.8. Approval of appointed USG officers for elected positions.

Section 4. The Chief Legislator shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

4.1. Call and preside over the sessions of the LA and appoint from its members, except the Majority
and Minority Floor Leaders and the Legislative Secretariat, a replacement upon his/her
incapacity or absence.
4.2. Call and preside over the meetings of the LA Inner Circle and appoint from its members,
except the Legislative Secretariat, a replacement upon his/her incapacity or absence.
4.3. Call special LA sessions.
4.4. Preserve order and decorum during sessions, and, in case of disturbance or disorderly conduct
within the premises where the session is being held, take such measures as he/she may deem
advisable or as the LA may direct.
4.5. Rule on all questions of order, subject to appeal by any member of the LA, which appeal shall
not be debatable, but the member appealing may explain his/her appeal for not more than five
minutes.
4.6. Sign and affix the seal of the USG in all resolutions, memorials, writs, warrants and subpoenas
issued by the order of the LA.
4.7. Enforce all rules, policies and procedures governing the LA.
4.8. Receive periodic reports from all units and members of the LA whose frequency of submission
shall be at his/her discretion.
4.9. Appoint LA Representatives to LA Committees.
4.10. Be an ex-officio member of all LA Committees.
4.11. Have administrative supervision over the LA and all its units.
4.12. Be the official representative of the LA in functions that require its presence.
4.13. Ensure that the LA follows properly the parliamentary procedure during sessions.

Section 5. The LA Representatives shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

5.1. Report directly to the Batch President, College President, Chief Legislator and President as
deemed necessary.
5.2. Participate actively in LA sessions.
5.3. Conduct regular consultations with his/her constituents regarding academic and non-academic
matters.
5.4. Hold position in other USG units and University-wide committees as appointed.
5.5. Handle the College Advisory Board together with the other LA Representatives of each
respective college.
5.6. Handle the Batch Advisory Board.
5.7. Review existing policies and resolutions.
5.8. Pass resolutions and legislations that are of relevance to the studentry.
5.9. Be entitled to a copy of all minutes, resolutions and the like that concerns the legislative
proceedings.
5.9. Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the EB, College President, Batch President,
Chief Legislator and the LA.
University Student Government Constitution 14
De La Salle University – Manila

Section 6. The Legislative Secretariat shall be chaired by the Executive Secretary and composed of at least two
staffs from the Office of the Executive Secretary.

Section 7. The Legislative Secretariat shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

7.1. Report directly to the Chief Legislator.


7.2. Enforce orders of the LA when such duty devolves upon them.
7.3. Record the minutes of each session of the LA and all meetings of the LA Inner Circle.
7.4. Call the roll of the members of the LA before the opening of the session.
7.5. Note all questions in order with the decisions thereon.
7.6. Complete, within five days after the close of the session, the printing and distribution of the
minutes for the said session to the members of the LA.
7.7. Provide each LA Committee a copy of the outline of the minutes for filing and reference.
7.8. Take charge in counting and recounting the votes or ballots.
7.9. Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the Chief Legislator or the LA.

Section 8. The LA Representatives shall, during the first session, elect among themselves a Majority Floor Leader
and a Minority Floor Leader.

8.1. The Majority Floor Leader shall consolidate the arguments and positions in a specific issue or
resolution of the majority of the body. He/She shall serve as the spokesperson of the majority
side. In case of conflict of interest, he/she may appoint anyone from the majority side to assume
the position but may not vacate his/her position as part of the majority, except for meritorious
cases to be decided by the Chief Legislator. He/She may call separate meetings outside the LA
sessions to convene the majority side.
8.2. The Minority Floor Leader shall consolidate the arguments and positions in a specific issue or
resolution of the minority of the body. He/She shall serve as the spokesperson of the minority
side. In case of conflict of interest, he/she may appoint anyone from the minority side to
assume the position but may not vacate his/her position as part of the minority, except for
meritorious cases to be decided by the Chief Legislator. He/She may call separate meetings
outside the LA sessions to convene the minority side.

Section 9. The members of the LA shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 10. The LA shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 11. Decisions made in the absence of the quorum shall not be binding, unless such are made in the context
of an implied quorum.

11.1. Implied quorum shall only be decided through a 100% vote of the members present, which is
composed of at least a majority (50% + 1) of the members of the LA.
11.2. Decision made during an implied quorum can be reached through a majority vote and shall
remain final unless no member of the body challenges the decision in the succeeding sessions
or meetings.
11.3. Decisions made during an implied quorum, which were reached through a 100% vote, shall be
considered final.

Section 12. Resolutions shall be passed by a majority vote (50% + 1) of the LA Representatives present in the
session, with the exception of resolutions which seek to amend this Constitution which requires a two-
thirds vote of the members of the LA.

Section 13. Resolutions passed by the LA shall be final and binding. However, if the EXECOM does not concur
though a two-thirds vote of its members, the EXECOM may ask for reconsideration and return the same
with objections to the LA immediately on its next session. In the event that the LA retains the original
decision by a majority vote of LA Representatives present, the resolution is executory.
University Student Government Constitution 15
De La Salle University – Manila

Section 14. All rulings announced by the Chief Legislator shall be final unless reversed through a motion to appeal
to the Chief Legislator’s rulings by any member of the LA. Such reversal shall require a two-thirds vote
of the members of the LA to be carried.

Article XV
THE LA COMMITTEES

Section 1. The LA Committees shall be formed to address specific tasks and functions and ensure that specialized
issues and concerns are adequately addressed by the LA.

Section 2. The LA Representatives shall be appointed to LA Committees and shall be limited to membership to
only one LA Committee. The Chief Legislator shall assign the LA Representatives to the LA
Committees in reference to, but not entirely based upon, the top three choices of each LA
Representative and in a manner that he/she deems necessary.

Section 3. Each LA Committee shall have a Chairperson, a Vice Chairperson and a Secretary, all of whom shall be
elected from among and by the members of the committee. The members shall determine the manner of
election thereof.

Section 4. The LA Committee Chairpersons shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

4.1. Report directly to the Chief Legislator.


4.2. Preside over the meetings of their respective LA Committees.
4.3. Participate in the meetings of the LA Inner Circle.
4.4. Administer the overall operations of their respective committees.
4.5. Report to the LA Inner Circle actions on resolutions referred to their committees.
4.6. Appoint committee members to sub-committees as well as delegate committee tasks to
committee members, whenever necessary.
4.7. Consolidate the committee members on matters pertinent to the LA and in their attendance to
LA sessions.
4.8. Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the Chief Legislator and the LA.

Section 5. The LA Committee Vice Chairpersons shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

5.1. Report directly to the LA Committee Chairperson.


5.2. Assume the powers and responsibilities of the LA Committee Chairperson in his/her incapacity
or absence.
5.3. Supervise the LA Committee researches.
5.4. Assist the LA Committee Chairperson in supervising the operation of the LA Committee.
5.5. Perform other functions deemed necessary by the LA Chairperson or as prescribed within the
rules of their respective committees.

Section 6. The LA Committee Secretary shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

6.1. Report directly to the LA Committee Chairperson.


6.2. Record the minutes of the LA Committee meetings and provide copies to committee members.
6.3. Organize and compile all documents pertinent to the LA Committee.
6.4. Be in charge of all logistical work of the LA Committee.
6.5. Be responsible for drafting and submission of periodic reports to the Chief Legislator.
6.6. Inform members of the LA Committee meetings two days prior to the scheduled date of the
meeting.
6.7. Perform other functions deemed necessary by the LA Committee Chairperson or as prescribed
within the rules of their respective committees.

Section 7. The members of the LA Committees shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities, other
than those stated in Article XIV Section 5 of this Constitution:
University Student Government Constitution 16
De La Salle University – Manila

7.1. Report directly to the LA Committee Chairperson.


7.2. Be present and participate actively in all LA Committee meetings.
7.3. Aid the LA Committee Vice Chairperson in committee researches.
7.4. Perform other functions deemed necessary by the LA Committee Chairperson or as prescribed
within the rules of their respective committees.

Section 8. The members of the LA Committees shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 9. Any member of the LA Committees may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 10. The LA Committees shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 11. A final decision must be reached via a majority (50% + 1) of those present. Decisions made outside this
provision are tentative and unofficial until majority of the LA Committee members are informed and
have agreed.

Article XVI
THE LA INNER CIRCLE

Section 1. The LA Inner Circle, which shall hereinafter be referred to as LA-IC, shall be vested with the
administrative power of the LA.

Section 2. The LA-IC shall be composed of the:

2.1. Chief Legislator.


2.2. Majority Floor Leader.
2.3. Minority Floor Leader.
2.4. All LA Committee Chairpersons.
2.5. Legislative Secretariat.

Section 3. The LA-IC shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

3.1. Discuss and decide on matters relating to the administration of the LA.
3.2. Receive reports from LA Committees on resolutions referred to it and on the performance of
the committee and its members.
3.3. Discuss and decide on matters relating to the rules and procedures to be used in the
consideration on the floor of resolutions reported to it, such as time limit for the debates, rules
on germaneness and amendments, etc.
3.4. Calendar resolutions reported by the LA Committees for consideration.
3.5. Outline the agenda of all LA sessions.

Section 4. All rulings by the LA-IC on matters pertaining to the administration of the LA may be overturned by a
two-thirds vote of the total membership of the LA.

Section 5. The members of the LA-IC shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 6. Any member of the LA-IC may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 7. The LA-IC shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 8. A final decision must be reached via a majority (50% + 1) of those present. Decisions made outside this
provision are tentative and unofficial until majority of the LA-IC members are informed and have
agreed.

Article XVII
University Student Government Constitution 17
De La Salle University – Manila

THE COLLEGE LEGISLATIVE BOARD

Section 1. The College Legislative Board, which shall hereinafter be referred to as the CLB, shall be an aid to the
CSG and shall act as the highest policy-making body of the CSG.

Section 2. The CLB shall be composed of:

2.1. All LA Representatives of the college.

Section 3. The CLB shall concern itself with discussing and deciding on the following matters:

3.1. Integral policies, existing operations, projects and programs of the college.
3.2. Resolutions of curricular and extra-curricular matters which are college-wide or batch-wide, as
may be necessary, in scope.
3.3. Representation of administrative and non-administrative units and committees requiring such
within the college.
3.4. Creation of standing and ad hoc committees for the college whose functions shall be
determined by the body.
3.5. Approval of College Commissioners for the Commission on Elections and the Commission on
Audit.

Section 4. Motions or resolutions approved by the CLB may be subject to the approval of the LA as deemed
necessary.

Section 5. The members of the CLB shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 6. Any member of the CLB may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 7. The CLB shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 8. A final decision must be reached via a majority (50% + 1) of those present. Decisions made outside this
provision are tentative and unofficial until majority of the CLB members are informed and have agreed.

Article XVIII THE


JUDICIARY

Section 1. The Judiciary shall be the sole body to be vested with judicial power. Judicial power includes the duty
of the Judiciary to settle actual controversies involving rights which are legally demandable and
enforceable and to determine whether or not there has been a grave abuse of discretion amounting to
lack or excess of jurisdiction on the part of any branch or instrumentality of the USG. The Judiciary
shall enjoy fiscal autonomy.

Section 2. The Judiciary shall be composed of the:

2.1. Chief Magistrate.


2.2. Five Magistrates.

Section 3. The Judiciary shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

3.1. To sit en banc, hear, try and resolve, by a two-thirds vote of the members present, within three
weeks any complaint involving the constitutionality, legality or jurisdiction of the acts, policies
and resolutions of USG officers.
3.2. To summon, order the investigation of suspension and impeach or recall USG officers.
3.3. To reprimand or cite in contempt any USG officer or unit.
3.6. To review and approve appointments by the officers of the USG.
University Student Government Constitution 18
De La Salle University – Manila

3.7. To review and approve the budget allocation of the USG, as presented by the Executive
Treasurer.
3.8. To confirm all Commissioners of the Commission on Elections and Commission on Audit
approved by the College Legislative Board.
3.9. To appoint its Investigating Officers and Prosecuting Officers whose number shall be
determined by the Judiciary.
3.10. To draft and adopt a Complaint and Impeachment Code.
3.11. To draft and adopt its own Rules of Internal Governance including the Rules of Court.
3.12 To conduct impeachment trials for any USG officer who is subject of an impeachment
complaint.

Section 4. The LA shall prescribe the qualifications of the Magistrates, Auditor, Investigating Officers and
Prosecution Officers.

Section 5. The Magistrates shall be duly appointed by a group of representatives from both the outgoing members
of the EXECOM and the Judiciary. The number of representatives of the Judiciary shall be the number
of undergraduate colleges, such that each college is represented.

Section 6. The completion of appointment of all Magistrates shall be at most a month after the General Elections.
The term of the Magistrates shall commence right the completion of appointment.

Section 7. A magistrate may hold office for more than one school year given that he/she will undergo reapplication
provided that he/she has at least three terms remaining.

Section 8. A joint EXECOM, AA and LA session, to be chaired by the President, shall be devoted to elect a Chief
Magistrate. Such election shall be done at most one week after the completion of appointment of the
Magistrates.

Section 9. The Chief Magistrate shall preside over all proceedings and shall be the spokesperson of the Judiciary.
In his/her absence or incapacity, he/she may appoint a replacement among the members of the
Judiciary.

Section 10. Any Magistrate who has committed his/her third unexcused absence from its sessions shall
automatically be investigated for impeachment.

Section 11. The Magistrates shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.

Section 12. Any Magistrate may call special meetings if he/she deemed it necessary.

Section 13. The Judiciary shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members, except on
impeachment proceedings which require complete attendance.

Section 14. Cases concerning violations of any USG officer of this constitution and its bylaws shall be heard and
decided upon by a magistrate from the college to which the accused belongs. Decisions made by a sole
magistrate can be subject to appeal provided that new evidences and/or points supporting the case of the
accused are found. Such appeal process shall be provided for in the Rules of Court.

Article XIX CONSTITUTIONAL


COMMISSIONS

COMMON PROVISIONS

Section 1. There shall be two independent Constitutional Commissions that shall report directly to the Judiciary:

1.1. Commission on Elections.


1.2. Commission on Audit.
University Student Government Constitution 19
De La Salle University – Manila

Section 2. The LA shall prescribe the qualifications of the Commissioners of the Commission on Elections and the
Commission on Audit.

Section 3. The Commissioners shall be appointed and approved by their respective College Legislative Board and
shall be presented to the Judiciary for confirmation.

Section 4. The completion of appointment, approval and confirmation of all Commissioners shall be at most a
month after the General Elections. The term of the Commissioners shall commence right the
confirmation of all the Commissioners of each Constitutional Commission.

Section 5. The Commissioners shall hold office for one complete school year, beginning in the first trimester and
ending in the third trimester.

Section 6. All Commissioners shall be prohibited from appointed position/s in any USG unit.

Section 7. The Commissioners of each Constitutional Commission shall elect among themselves a Chairperson, a
Vice Chairperson, a Secretary and a Treasurer. They shall also be given the prerogative to recruit
members who shall help them in discharging their functions.

Section 8. The Chairperson of each Constitutional Commission shall preside over all proceedings and shall be the
spokesperson of his/her respective Constitutional Commission.

Section 9. The Commissioners of each Constitutional Commission shall determine the frequency and the ti me of
their meetings.

Section 10. Any Commissioner of each Constitutional Commission may call special meetings if he/she deemed it
necessary.

Section 11. Each Constitutional Commission shall constitute a quorum of no less than two-thirds of its members.

Section 12. A final decision must be reached via a majority (50% + 1) of those present. Decisions made outside this
provision are tentative and unofficial until majority of the members of each Constitutional Commission
are informed and have agreed.

COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS

Section 13. The Commission on Elections, which shall hereinafter be referred to as COMELEC, shall decide on all
electoral exercises within the University.

Section 14. The COMELEC shall be composed of two Commissioners from each college.

Section 15. The COMELEC shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:

15.1. To adopt and uphold the Election Code passed by the LA.
15.2. To serve as the steering committee for the USG elections.
15.3. To certify qualifications of candidates.
15.4. To penalize or disqualify candidates and/or political parties who violate the Election Code.
15.5. To educate voters on the voting process to be used in the USG elections.
15.6. To encourage students to vote.
15.7. To enforce and administer all rules and regulations relative to the conduct of an election,
plebiscite, initiative, referendum and recall.

Section 16. The decision of the COMELEC on all electoral practices shall be considered final unless appealed in the
Judicial department.
University Student Government Constitution 20
De La Salle University – Manila

COMMISSION ON AUDIT

Section 20 The Commission on Audit, which shall hereinafter be referred to as COA, shall be composed of a
chairman and two commissioners, who shall be legitimate students of DLSU, and at the time of their
appointment, has at least one year of tenure in DLSU, and must not have been candidates for any
position in the election preceding their appointment.

Section 21 The Chairman and the Commissioners shall be appointed by the President with consent of the
EXECOM, Chief Legislator and Chief Magistrate, for three consecutive terms without reappointment.

Section 22 In cases of early vacancy, the President with consent of the EXECOM, Chief Legislator and Chief
Magistrate must appoint a new commissioner who will serve the unexpired term of the commissioner
preceding his appointment.

Section 23 The Commission on audit shall have the power, authority, and duty to examine and audit all accounts
pertaining to the revenue and receipts of, and to the expenses and disbursements of every USG unit

Section 24 The Commission on Audit shall create a COA Manual to be approved by the Legislative Assembly
Section 25 The COA Chairman shall have 1 year experience of being an auditor in the Office of the Treasurer.

Section 26 The Commission on audit has the responsibility of filing a complaint to the USG-SC or to lower courts,
whichever is deemed necessary, against any USG official accused to be misappropriating fund.

Section 27 The COA shall create their own structure relevant to their operations.

Section 27 The Commission on Audit shall submit trimestral COA reports to the President, Chief Legislator and
Chief Magistrate.

Article XX
ARTICLES OF IMPEACHMENT

Section 1. All USG elected officers may be removed from office, on impeachment for, and conviction of, culpable
violations of this Constitution and betrayal of public trust.

Section 2. The following may be grounds for impeachment:

2.1. Any willful violation of this Constitution and its bylaws.


2.2. Gross negligence of duty.
2.3. Illegal disbursement of funds.
2.4. Any behavior which undermines the integrity of the USG.
2.5. Any other forms of gross misconduct as provided by the USG policies.

Section 3. Any student or officer of the USG may file a resolution of impeachment against any USG officer. The
resolution must be addressed to the Chief Magistrate.

Section 4. The policies on impeachment shall be as follows:

4.1. The Judiciary shall order investigations of cases of impeachment and recall at its own
discretion or on the basis of written complaints from any student or officer of the USG within
seven regular school days (not including Sundays and holidays). The Judiciary shall then
decide whether to initiate impeachment or recall proceedings or not. Should the Judiciary fail to
meet this deadline, complaints shall automatically be dismissed.
4.2. The Judiciary shall serve notice of impeachment or recall to the official/s concerned at least
four days before the set hearing date. Any USG officer must take a leave of absence once
notice of impeachment or recall is served to him/her.
University Student Government Constitution 21
De La Salle University – Manila

4.3. All matters of impeachment and recall shall be heard and tried with all the Magistrates in
attendance. Decisions on impeachment shall be made upon two-thirds vote of the Judiciary.
4.4. The Judiciary shall impose the necessary sanctions. All decisions of the Judiciary on matters of
impeachment and recall are final and executory, except for meritorious cases.
4.5. Should any Magistrate be the subjected to an impeachment complaint, he/she must take a leave
of absence before any investigation on the complaint is conducted. He/She shall be temporarily
replaced within twenty-four hours by a prosecuting officer of his/her choice. A special body,
chaired by the President, with five unconfirmed impartial appointees from the students, shall
initiate impeachment proceedings on the Magistrate/s concerned. It shall resolve the matter
unanimously within three weeks.

Article XXI
THE COUNCIL OF STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Section 1. The Council of Student Organizations, which shall hereinafter be referred to as CSO, shall be the union
of all the duly accredited organizations in the University. The CSO shall create and maintain conditions
and opportunities for the full realization of the organizations’ goals. It shall deliver quality servi ces and
activities and develop proactive and dynamic leaders.

Section 2. The CSO shall be an autonomous body that may work closely in coordination, in the principle of
synergy, with the Vice President for Internal Affairs.

Section 3. The CSO shall:

3.1. Adhere to the policies of cooperation and harmonious relations with all the units of the USG.
3.2. Be responsible for its member organizations and be answerable to the student body, subject to
agreements entered into by the CSO and its member organizations.

Section 4. The CSO shall have the right to:

4.1. Operate on its own with regards to CSO-related matters.


4.2. Implement full decision-making capability on matters concerning its member organizations.
4.3. Draft its own by-laws to guide its operations and policies subject to the consultation and
approval of the Council Body and in reference to the policies of the USG.

Section 5. The policy-making body of the CSO shall be the Council Body composed of all the existing
organizations.

Section 6. A student organization shall be recognized for membership in CSO subject to the policies of the
Aspiring Organizations Accreditation Committee (AOAC).

Section 7. The CSO as a body shall not be empowered to make stands on national and University issues but
individual organizations may do so. CSO as a body, however, upon a unanimous decision, may take
stands on University issues affecting the interests of the member organizations upon the discretion of
the CSO Executive Board.

Section 8. The CSO and its member organizations are prohibited from endorsing any political party or candidate
for the USG Elections.

Article XXII CONVENTION


OF LEADERS

Section 1. The Convention of Leaders, which shall hereinafter be referred to as COLE, shall serve as an advisory
body to the President, without any executive or legislative functions.

Section 2. The COLE shall be composed of the:


University Student Government Constitution 22
De La Salle University – Manila

2.1. All members of the EXECOM.


2.2. Chief Legislator.
2.3. Chief Magistrate.
2.4. All Batch Presidents.
2.5. One representative from each recognized student organization.
2.6. One representative from each unrecognized student organization.
2.7. One representative from each major student publication.
2.8. One representative from each support group of administrative unit.
2.9. One representative from each cultural arts group.
2.10. One representative from each athletic and varsity team.
2.11. One representative from each other student organization or unit not listed.
2.12. Immediate past members of the USG EB.

Section 3. The COLE shall serve as a venue where:

3.1. The student leaders can suggest projects, programs and actions to the USG regarding national,
sectoral and University-wide and academic-related issues.
3.2. The USG leadership can gather feedback on the projects, programs and actions being
undertaken by the USG.
3.3. The student leaders can assess the performance of the USG and recommend necessary steps to
further attain its objectives
3.4. Information regarding USG affairs can be disseminated directly from the EB to the student
leaders.
3.5. Other functions as deemed necessary by the President.

Section 4. The COLE shall convene once a term. The President shall have the prerogative to call emergency
meetings at times which warrant the immediate advice of the COLE.

Article XXIII
ELECTIONS

Section 1. The elections of the USG officers shall be held every third trimester of the preceding school year, with
the exception of the election of incoming freshmen officers, which shall be held during the first
trimester of the school year.

Section 2. USG officers shall be elected by the plurality of all votes cast. Protest of a majority (50% + 1) against
any officer by his/her constituent population shall render the election of such an officer invalid.

Section 3. The qualifications to be a candidate for the USG elections shall be provided by the Election Code.

Section 4. The members of the EB shall be voted into office by the members of the entire student body.

Section 5. The College Presidents shall be voted into office by the members of their respective colleges.

Section 6. The Batch Presidents and the LA Representatives shall be voted into office by the members of their
respective batches of their respective colleges.

Section 7. The COMELEC shall call a special election within the first four weeks of the first trimester of the
school year for vacancies arising from the disqualification of candidates.

Section 8. The term of the USG officers shall begin on the last day of the preceding school year and end on the last
day of the same school year.
University Student Government Constitution 23
De La Salle University – Manila

Article XXIV
VACANCIES

Section 1. The LA shall decide on actions required for vacancies in the USG following a special session.

Section 2. In case of incapacity in the discharge of duties, removal from office or resignation of the President, the
Vice President for Internal Affairs shall take the position of the President while maintaining his/her
functions and powers as Vice President for Internal Affairs until the necessary appointment is made.

Section 3. In case of incapacity in the discharge of duties, removal from office or resignation of any EB member
excluding the President, the President shall endorse a USG officer excluding the Judiciary department,
and the LA shall decide on the endorsement of the USG officer into position.

Section 4 In case of incapacity in the discharge of duties, removal from office or resignation of a Batch Vice-
President or LA Representative, the College President shall decide on what action/s to take in such
circumstance, upon confirmation of the LA.

Section 5. Resignation shall only be valid if it concerns health, academics, among others, subject to the approval of
the LA. There shall be no leave of absence from the USG duties, except for the case of incumbent USG
officers seeking to run for office in the next general elections. Such officers are, however, required to
resume their original posts and complete the term of their original office after election.

Article XXV GENERAL


PROVISIONS

Section 1. The results of all referenda and plebiscites not provided herein shall be valid upon a majority turnout of
voters.

Section 2. All incumbent COMELEC Commissioners shall remain in office until after the newly appointed
Magistrates assume their office.
University Student Government Constitution 24
De La Salle University – Manila

Article XXVI
AMENDMENTS

Section 1. Any amendment or revision of this Constitution may be proposed by the students through an initiative
upon a vote of at least two-thirds of the members of the LA.

Section 2. Any amendment or revision of this Constitution under Section 1 hereof shall be valid only when ratified
by a majority of all votes cast in a plebiscite.

Section 3. No amendment or revision of this Constitution shall be authorized within three years following the
ratification of this Constitution.

Article XXVII TRANSITORY


PROVISIONS

Section 1. All existing resolutions, codes, Rules of Internal Governance and policies consistent with this
Constitution shall remain operative until amended, repealed or revoked.

Section 2. The term of incumbent officers shall be extended until such time that matters pertaining to their term of
office require representation of the studentry.

Article XXVIII
SEPARABILITY CLAUSE

If any provision of this Constitution is declared invalid, the remainder thereof not affected thereby shall continue in full
force and effect.

Article XXIX
EFFECTIVITY

This Constitution shall take effect the school year following the ratification by a majority of fifty percent plus one votes
cast by the members of the USG at a plebiscite called for by this purpose and shall supercede all previous constitutions.
SUPPLEMENTARY
1
GUIDELINES
 Science & Technology Government (Resolution 2012-03-77)
 Resignation Guideline (Resolution 2012-20)
 Presidential Pardon Guideline (Resolution 2009-12)
 Magistrate Jurisdiction Guidelines (Resolution 2009-15)
 Judiciary Impeachment Guidelines ( Resolution 2009-24)
 Qualification and Application Process of Magistrate (Resolution 2009-29)
 Qualifications for COMELEC and COA commissioners (Resolution 2009-31)
 Qualifications for Prosecuting and Investigating Officers (As amended by Resolution 2012-57)

1
The Supplementary Guidelines section are those approved and passed by the Legislative Assembly
through a resolution in order to guide the current USG and any other people in interpreting certain
provisions of the constitution as it may be vague or confusing on the part of the reader. Therefore those
provisions included in the Supplementary Guidelines are not part of the USG Constitution and can be
amended any time as the current Legislative Assembly deemed necessary, however they should follow
the amendment clause, if any, indicated therein by the Legislative Assembly who created and approved
such guideline. If there is none then it could be amended, modified, repealed or abolished by majority
vote of the Legislative Assembly in one of its session.(Au, 2012)
De La Salle University Science and Technology Complex Government

Article I
Preamble

With the need to integrate the Student Council of De La Salle Canlubang (now De La Salle University Science and
Technology Complex) and the University Student Government of De La Salle University, we do hereby establish a
pro tempore Student Government in De La Salle University Science and Technology Complex following the
principles of our own constitution.

Article II
Title and Jurisdiction

Section 1. The DLSU Science and Technology Complex (DLSU-STC) Student Government, which shall take the
place of the former De La Salle Canlubang Student Council, shall be established pro tempore under this
Constitution, and shall be known as the Science and Technology Complex Government, which shall hereinafter be
referred to as the STC-G.

Section 2. The principal seat of the STC-G shall be in De La Salle Canlubang, Leandro V. Locsin Campus, Barrio
Malamig, Biñan Laguna, and shall also be represented in the University Student Government (USG) of De La Salle
University (DLSU), 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila.

Section 3. The STC-G shall be the representative body of all undergraduate college students enrolled in De La
Salle University Science and Technology Complex.

Article III
Structure, Duties and Responsibilities

Section 1. The STC-G shall have the same powers, duties, functions and responsibilities as that of a College
Government stated in Article XI of the USG Constitution.

Section 2. The STC-G Executive Board which shall hereinafter be referred to as the STC-G-EB shall be composed
of the following:

2.1. STC-G Campus President


2.2. All STC-G Collegiate Representatives
2.3. STC-G Legislative Assembly Representative

Section 3. The STC-G Campus President shall:

3.1. Be elected into office by popular vote and shall have the same powers, duties and
responsibilities as that of a College President as defined in Article XI Section 5 of the USG
Constitution.
3.2. Be a member of the USG EXECOM and shall enjoy the same privilege and voting powers as
that of any member of the said committee.
3.3. The STC-G Campus President shall also be a member of the USG Activities Assembly (AA)
and shall be required to submit weekly reports in exchange for attendance in AA meetings.
3.4. The STC-G Campus President is required to attend AA and EXECOM meetings at least once
a month and when deemed necessary by the chair of AA and in the case of EXECOM meetings by
the USG President.

Section 4. The STC-G Collegiate Representatives shall be an elected position voted upon by constituents of
his/her respective college in DLSU-STC. He/She shall:

4.1. Have the same powers, duties and responsibilities as that of a Batch President stated in
Article XII Sections 5 and 6 of the USG Constitution.
4.2. Also be a member of the USG AA and shall function similarly as stated in Section 3.3 of this
article.
4.3. Be an ex officio member of their respective College Governments in De La Salle University
Taft Campus and shall have the same privilege as any other member of the said college.
4.4. Be required to attend AA at least once a month and when deemed necessary by the chair of
AA.

Section 5. The STC-G shall have two (2) elected Legislative Assembly Representatives which shall hereinafter be
referred to as STC-G-LA, and shall have the same powers, duties and responsibilities of a Legislative Assembly
Representative as stated in Article XIV, Section 5 of the USG Constitution. They shall:

5.1. The STC-G-LA shall submit all of its approved resolutions and term-end performance report to
the Chief Legislator.

5.2. The Chief Legislator shall have the power to convene an en banc LA session as deemed
necessary to discuss resolutions approved by the STC-G-LA.

5.3. The STC-G-LA shall have the special power of amending this document and propose
resolutions.

5.4. The STC-G-LA shall serve seats as members of the USG Legislative Assembly but whose
attendance is not required but may be called upon by the Chief Legislator as deemed necessary.
They shall also have voting powers on resolutions submitted in the Legislative Assembly provided
that they are present at the LA session discussing the resolutions.

5.5. The STC-G-LA shall be required to attend en banc LA sessions once a month as declared by
the Chief Legislator and must be notified at least (3) days before the session.

5.6 During en banc sessions, STC-G-LA approved resolutions chosen by the Chief Legislator shall
be included in the agenda and may be re-approved by the entire Legislative Assembly as deemed
necessary.

Section 6. The STC-G shall also have one appointed Magistrate which shall hereinafter be referred to as STC-G-
Magistrate and shall be part of the Judiciary with the same powers, duties and responsibilities as stated in Article
XVIII, Section 3 of the USG Constitution. He/she shall report directly to the Chief Magistrate. His/Her attendance in
Judiciary en banc sessions shall be required as deemed necessary by the Chief Magistrate.

Article IV
General Provisions

Section 1. The STC-G and all its governing members shall have the equal rights to serve seats in all University-
wide, college-wide and batch-wide assemblies and may be appointed positions on the said committees as deemed
necessary by the USG-EXECOM, AA and/or the USG President.

Section 2. The STC-G shall be required to follow all other provisions stated in the USG Constitution, its
supplementary guidelines, USG Code of Conduct and any other laws and policies that are of relevance to the
body.

Section 3. The STC-G shall have and exercise similar rights as stated in the USG Bill of Rights, Students’ Charter
and other laws of the land.

Section 4. All elected positions of the STC-G shall be voted upon by their respective constituents during the USG
General Elections conducted on the third term of each academic year.

Section 5. Impeachment cases submitted against STC-G elected officers shall be tried and heard by the STC-G-
Magistrate and/or the Chief Magistrate as he/she deems necessary.

Article V
Amendments

Section 1. Any amendments made to this document may be proposed by any Legislative Assembly
Representative, STC-G-LA or the STC-G-EB through a resolution that shall be subject to the approval of the
Legislative Assembly.
1.1. Amendments made by the STC-G-EB must be sponsored and authored by an LA Representative
and/or by the STC-G-LA.

1.2. Amendments proposed to this document will be voted upon by a majority vote of the Legislative
Assembly through an en banc session with the STC-G-LA.

Article VI
Separability Clause

If any provision of this document is declared invalid, the remainder thereof not affected thereby shall continue in full
force and effect.

Article VII
Effectivity

Established as a pro tempore government, the STC-G shall take effect on the first term of the academic year and
elections shall be conducted Third Term of Academic Year 2012-2013 following the approval of the Legislative
Assembly and shall be subject to changes as deemed fit through resolutions as stated in Article V of this
document. The effectivity of the STC-G shall run for two years and shall be subject to amendments on its third year
following the growth of the population of the campus.
RESIGNATION GUIDELINES

Section 1. Definition of Terms

1.1 Resignation shall be defined as the formal and permanent withdrawal from a given position.

1.2 Vacating Officer shall be defined as the elected officer filing for resignation.

1.3 Replacement Officer shall be defined as one who is appointed to succeed the vacating officer in his or her
previous position/s in the University Student Government.

1.4 Public Announcement is defined as a statement, both in softcopy and hardcopy, posted and disseminated to the
members of the USG and the entire studentry through the Executive Secretary.

1.4.1 Softcopies of public announcements are in the form of online publicity materials uploaded,
disseminated and shared in social networking sites.

1.4.2 Hardcopies of public announcements are in the form of printed publicity materials posted in the
appropriate bulletin boards and published in the newspapers of the official publications within the premises
of the University.

1.5 Reasonable Cause is defined as a reason within the bounds of those stipulated in Article XXIV, Section 5 of
the USG Constitution.

Section 2. Filing for Resignation

2.1 Communing of Resignation

2.1.1 The vacating officer shall commune his formal intention to resign through written
communication.

2.1.1.1 A letter should be addressed to the University Student Government President, Executive
Secretary, Chief Legislator and Chief Magistrate, and should contain:

2.1.1.1.1 Reasonable cause of resignation

2.1.1.1.2 Position/s to be vacated (both as elected and as appointed in LA Committees,


AA Committees, CURE Committees, etc.)

2.1.1.1.3 Officer-in-charge while replacement officer is not yet appointed

2.1.1.1.4 Date when resignation must take effect (for cases where in the vacating officer
is leaving the University)

2.1.1.2 Oral communication of intended resignation shall be considered neither formal nor valid
for further processing.

2.1.2 Upon receiving the letter of resignation, the Chief Legislator should include the resignation in the
agenda of the next LA session.

2.1.3 Once the resignation is approved, the vacating officer shall make his formal act and cause of
resignation public by issuing an official statement from his office to be sent out to all USG units and
student publications.

2.1.4 The Executive Secretary is then mandated to release a public announcement based on the official
statement, identifying the vacating officer, his former position, his cause, his act of resignation, and the
status of the replacement within.

2.2 Restrictions of Resignation

2.2.1 It shall be granted upon the sole decision of the Legislative Assembly, unless vetoed by the
President.

2.2.2 The replacement officer may or may not accept the position granted by the Legislative Assembly.

2.2.3 The replacement officer, upon acceptance of the vacated position of the elected, automatically
assumes a seat in committees in which the vacating officer was appointed, but is not entitled to the
previous position held by the vacating officer within the committee, if any.

2.2.4 The resignation may no longer be revoked once granted.

Section 3. The Replacement Officer

3.1 The Replacement Officer should be a bona fide student of De La Salle University.

3.1.1 For a batch level resignation, the Replacement Officer should be from the same college and year
level of the Vacating Officer, currently enrolled in any undergraduate degree in the college, and should
have completed at least two (2) full terms in the same college with the exception of Replacement Officers
for the freshmen level.

3.1.2 For a college level resignation, the Replacement Officer should be from the same college of the
Vacating Officer, currently enrolled in any undergraduate degree in the college, and should have
completed at least three (3) full terms in the same college and five (5) full terms in the University.

3.1.3 For an executive level resignation, the Replacement Officer should have completed at least five (5)
full terms in the University.

3.2 The Replacement Officer should have a CGPA of at least 1.75 upon being appointed the position of the
Vacating Officer.

3.3 The Replacement Officer shall not have been placed under any academic probation for the past three (3) terms
prior to being appointed the position of the Vacating Officer.

3.4 The Replacement Officer shall not be an Executive Board member or its equivalent in any DLSU duly
recognized student organization upon being appointed the position of the Vacating Officer.

3.5 The Replacement Officer should have no more than 15 units of failure for single degree holders and 18 units of
failure for double degree holders.

3.6 The Replacement Officer who has committed any major offense may be appointed upon the approval of the
Director of the Student Discipline and Formation Office.

3.7 The Replacement Officer shall have at least 12 academic units for the remaining term/s of the academic year
unless stated otherwise in the flowchart, not counting audit courses.

3.8 A University Student Government Officer who has been removed from office through the impeachment process
shall not be allowed to replace any vacating officer during his/her entire stay in the university.

3.9 A replacement officer should be endorsed to the LA at most two (2) weeks after the filing of resignation of the
vacating officer.

Section 4. Provisions on Replacement

4.1 The Legislative Assembly is the sole body that shall approve the Replacement Officer in cases of vacancies in
the University Student Government.

4.1.1 For the resignation of the President, the Vice President for Internal Affairs shall automatically be the
Replacement Officer. He/she will maintain his/her functions and powers as the Vice President for Internal
Affairs until the endorsed Replacement Officer for the Office of the Vice President for Internal Affairs has
been approved by the LA.

4.1.2 If both President and Vice President for Internal Affairs are vacated, the Vice President for External
Affairs shall automatically be the Replacement Officer. He/she will maintain his/her functions and powers
as the Vice President for External Affairs until the endorsed Replacement Officer for the Office of the Vice

President for External Affairs has been approved by the LA.

4.1.3 For the resignation of any EB member excluding the USG President, the USG President shall endorse
a USG officer excluding the Judiciary department, and the LA shall decide on the endorsement of the USG
officer into position.

4.1.4 For the resignation of a College President, the USG President will endorse a Replacement Officer
whose appointment is subject to the approval of the LA.

4.1.5 For the resignation of a Batch President, the Batch Vice-President will automatically be the
Replacement Officer. He/she will maintain his/her functions and powers as the Batch Vice-President until
the endorsed Replacement Officer for the Batch Vice-Presidency has been approved by the Legislative
Assembly.

4.1.6 For the resignation of a Batch Vice-President or LA Representative, the College President shall
decide on what action/s to take in such circumstance, upon confirmation of the LA.

4.2 Once the approval of the Replacement Officer is final, the LA shall make their decision public by issuing an
official statement to be sent out to all USG units.

4.3 The Executive Secretary is then mandated to release a public announcement from this official statement, stating
the decision of the LA and identifying the Replacement Officer.

Section 5. Other Provisions

5.1 The vacating officer is given the option to express his sentiments regarding the resignation publicly through a
press conference, but is not granted an exemption from the processes and guidelines stated above should he opt to
do so.

5.2 The Officers Monitoring Board (OMB) reserves the option to require the replacement officer to report regularly
to OMB so as to closely monitor his performance for the remainder of his term in office.

Section 6. Amendments

6.1 Any amendments made to the Resignation Guidelines shall be subject to a two-third vote in the Legislative
Assembly.
PRESIDENTIAL PARDON GUIDELINES

I. Definition of Terms

A. Pardon is an action which mitigates or sets aside the punishment for a crime;
B. A just cause is a reason deemed rationale by the discretion of the officer granting the pardon;
C. Commutation is the replacement of a greater amount by a lesser amount;

II. The Presidential Pardon

A. Description of the Presidential Pardon

i. A presidential pardon shall render the offender free from the sanction/s imposed by the
Judiciary;
ii. A presidential pardon shall be granted upon the sole decision of the President;
iii.A presidential pardon may either be conditional or unconditional:

1. A conditional pardon imposes a condition which can be fulfilled at the moment of


imposition on the offender before the pardon takes effect (i.e. commutation of a
sanction);
2. An unconditional pardon restores the state of innocence of the offender as though
he/she had never committed the crime upon declaration of the pardon;

B. Requirements for a Presidential Pardon

i. A presidential pardon can only be granted upon the Judiciary’s declaration of the offender
guilty;
ii. A presidential pardon shall be of just cause;

C. Restrictions on the Presidential Pardon

i. A presidential pardon, upon being granted, may or may not be accepted by the offender;
ii. A presidential pardon can no longer be revoked once granted;

III. The President

A. The President shall make his/her formal intention, act, and cause of pardon public to all USG units,
student publications, and the studentry by issuing an official statement from his/her office;
B. Upon granting an unconditional pardon, the President shall be responsible for answering to any legal
repercussions caused by the pardoned act of the offender;
C. Upon granting a conditional pardon, the President shall make his/her condition for pardon public to all
USG units and student publications;

IV. Other Provisions


A. All parties directly concerned by the violation and pardon reserve the option to consult with the
President and express his/her opinion publicly regarding the pardon;
B. The Officers Monitoring Board reserves the option to monitor the performance of the pardoned USG
officer for the remainder of his/her term of office by requiring him/her to report to the Officers Monitoring
Board or any USG unit as stated by the Officers Monitoring Board whenever deemed necessary;
C. The Office of the President shall be responsible for properly documenting all presidential pardons
granted within the term of office of the President.
MAGISTRATE JURISDICTION GUIDELINES
1. Any violation incurred by a non-Executive Board USG officer and non-Executive Board USG appointee except
the magistrates shall first be heard, tried and resolved by his or her respective College Magistrate as stated in Article
XVIII, Sec. 14 and the Rules of Court.

2. An allotment of three weeks shall be given to the College Magistrate to investigate, decide and resolve the case
of the accused USG officer who falls under Guideline 1.

3. The College Magistrate, through the help of the Investigating and Prosecuting Officers appointed by the
Judiciary, shall head and supervise the investigation as well as decide the case of the accused within three weeks.

4. Any decision made by the College Magistrate shall be final unless an appeal is made to the whole Judiciary
within three (3) school days (a school day is defined as a day that falls from Monday to Friday) after the decision.

5. In line with Article XVIII Section 14, decisions regarding cases under Guideline 1 made by a sole magistrate
(College Magistrate) can be subject to appeal provided that new evidences and/or points supporting the case of the
accused are found.

6. When a reopening of a case occurs due to Guideline 4, such case shall be heard, tried and resolved by the whole
Judiciary in line with its roles and responsibilities as stated in Article XVIII Section 3.1 and the Rules of Court.

7. Should an Executive Board member or Executive Board appointee of the USG violate any part of the
constitution or a case which does not fall under Guideline 1 be filed, the whole Judiciary shall immediately hear,
try and resolve such case.

8. Any decision made by the Judiciary by a two-thirds vote of the members present shall be final and binding at
this point.
JUDICIARY IMPEACHMENT GUIDELINE

Section 1. Impeachment of any USG Officer


1.1. All USG elected officers may be removed from office, on impeachment for, and conviction of,
culpable violations of this Constitution and betrayal of public trust. (Article XX, Section 1)
1.2. The following may be grounds for impeachment: (Article XX, Section 2)
1.2.1. Any willful violation of this Constitution and its bylaws.
1.2.2. Gross negligence of duty.
1.2.3. Illegal disbursement of funds.
1.2.4. Any behavior which undermines the integrity of the USG.
1.2.5. Any other forms of gross misconduct as provided by the USG policies.

Section 2. Procedures in filing an Impeachment Complaint for a non-Judiciary USG officer


2.1. Any student or officer of the USG may file a resolution of impeachment against any USG officer.
(Article XX, Section 3)
2.2. The resolution must be addressed to the Chief Magistrate. (Article XX, Section 3)
2.3. Before an investigation can be initiated, all impeachment complaints submitted to the Chief Magistrate
shall be subjected to a screening process. All members of the Judiciary will handle the screening process.
During the screening process, the Judiciary shall validate the claim in order to determine if an investigation
is necessary. (Article XX, Section 4.1)
2.4. The Judiciary shall notify the defendant at least four (4) days before the set hearing date of the
impeachment complaint. Any USG officer must take a leave of absence once the impeachment complaint
has been validated and deemed that an investigation is necessary. (Article XX, Section 4.2)
2.5. In the hearing of the impeachment complaint, a two-thirds vote of the magistrates present will serve
as the final decision of the Judiciary. (Article XX, Section 4.3)
2.6. The judiciary is the one in charge to impose certain sanctions on the USG officer concerned in which
these decisions are final and executory, except for meritorious cases. (Article XX, Section 4.4)

Section 3. Impeachment Complaint Guidelines for a Judiciary USG officer:


3.1. In cases where the complaint is filed against a member of the judiciary, the defendant will not
participate in the screening process. A prosecuting officer of the defendant’s choice will temporarily
participate in judicial activities in place of the defendant. (Article XX, Section 4.5)
3.2. The prosecuting officer who temporarily replaces the magistrate who filed a leave of absence will
have all the powers borne by a magistrate, except voting from the screening process until the impeachment
case of the said magistrate has been resolved.
3.3. A two-thirds vote of the members present during the screening process will serve as the final decision
of determining whether an investigation is necessary or otherwise.
3.4. A special body, chaired by the President with five unconfirmed impartial appointees from the students,
shall initiate impeachment proceeding on the Magistrate/s concerned. It shall resolve the matter
unanimously within three weeks. (Article XX, Section 4.5)
3.4.1. The president will select the appointed members of the special body. The Legislative Assembly
shall screen selected members before they are admitted to the special body. A two-third vote is required in
order to approve the member of the special body.
3.4.2. If the Legislative Assembly disapproved a candidate for the special body, the president shall search
for another candidate to be approved by the Legislative Assembly.

Section 4. Procedures in the appointment of impartial officers handling the impeachment proceedings of a
magistrate
4.1. A special body chaired by the president with five (5) unconfirmed impartial appointees from the
students, shall initiate impeachment proceedings on the magistrate/s concerned. (USG Constitution; Article
XX, Section4.5)
4.1.1. The President will appoint at least five (5) officers of his/her own choice from the student
body.
4.1.2. The Legislative Assembly will handle the screening process and the approval of the five
(5) appointed officers by the President.
4.1.3. The Legislative Assembly shall approve the five (5) appointed officers chosen by the
President and provided that these individuals satisfactorily undergoes the screening process and
interviews prescribed in its qualifications and has passed an examination prepared by the
Legislative body.
Section 5. Qualifications for an unconfirmed impartial appointee

5.1. He/She is not currently under any academic probation.


5.2. He/She shall not have been a member of any political party as certified by the political party
presidents for the duration of his/her stay as a student in the University.
5.3. He/She should be able to work during the hours deemed necessary by the Position.
5.4. He/She must score a grade of at least 65% in the USG constitution exam that was prepared by the
Judiciary.
5.5. He/She must undergo the complete USG training handled by the Judiciary right after the approval of
the Legislative body.

Section 6. Excusing of an impartial appointee in handling an impeachment complaint


6.1. Upon appointment by the Legislative Assembly, an impartial appointee must initiate the impeachment
proceeding until a decision is reached
6.2. An impartial appointee may be excused from his/her duties due to the following
reasons:
6.2.1. Conflict with academic schedule.
6.2.2. Health reasons that may deter a person from attending any normal human activity.
6.2.3. Other reasons as deemed necessary by the Executive Secretary of the De La Salle
University Student Government.
6.3. An impartial appointee who must be excused from his/her duties shall submit a letter to the
Judiciary and the Legislative Assembly, which will undergo a deliberation by the Legislative
Assembly.
6.4. In case an impartial appointee cannot assume his/her duties during the impeachment proper,
the impeachment proceedings will continue without replacing the appointee who is unable to
assume his/her role in the impeachment proceedings.
Qualification and Application Process of Magistrates

QUALIFICATIONS FOR MAGISTRATES

1. The applicant for Magistrates must have gone under the Magistrate Training Program (MTP) provided by the outgoing
Judiciary during the application period in order to have sufficient background and knowledge regarding the USG
Constitution and specifically his/her role as a Magistrate.

2. The applicant for Magistrates must not have been actively involved in any political party during his/her stay in the
university to ensure an unbiased approach in doing his/her duties as a Magistrate.

3. The applicant must be able to serve and perform the duties of a Magistrate of his/her college for one full year.

4. The applicant must have at least 3 terms left during the time of application.

5. The applicant must not hold any EB position in any other organization.

6. The applicant must come from the college he/she wishes to represent.

APPLICATION PROCESS

1. The College Assembly Presidents, in coordination with the outgoing Judiciary, shall spearhead the recruitment for
Magistrates in their respective colleges during the third term of each academic year. Applicants must submit a standard
application form (to be issued by the outgoing Judiciary). The CAP’s shall review their application forms (and may also
choose to screen these applicants personally) in order to come up with a shortlist of 3 to 5 applicants who shall be selected to
undergo the Magistrate Training Program.

2. Shortlisted applicants shall undergo the Magistrate Training Program conducted by the outgoing judiciary. Upon
completion of the said course, a test that will be prepared by the outgoing Judiciary shall be taken by the applicants. He/she
needs a 70% passing grade in order to get to the final stage of the application process.

3. The applicants must undergo an interview (or any other means of screening deemed necessary by the outgoing EXECOM
and Judiciary) with the outgoing EXECOM and Judiciary to ensure the competency of the applicant. After all applicants
have been interviewed, the outgoing EXECOM and Judiciary shall, through a majority vote, appoint the 6 college
magistrates.

4. Exactly one magistrate per college must be appointed by the end of the application period. A joint EXECOM, AA and LA
session, chaired by the President, shall be devoted to elect a Chief Magistrate. Such election shall be done at most one week
after the completion of appointment of the Magistrate. (University Student Government Constitution, Art. XVIII, Section 8);

5. In cases where there are no qualified applicants for the position of magistrate for a certain college, or there is a vacancy in
the position, the elected Chief Magistrate shall act and handle all cases of that college until the newly-appointed Judiciary is
able to appoint one.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR COMELEC COMMISSIONERS

1. The applicant for COMELEC Commissioner must not have been actively involved in any political party during his/her
stay in the university to ensure an unbiased approach in doing his/her duties as a Constitutional Commissioner. This is
certified by a joint written statement/certification from both political party presidents, who in turn, have the option to refuse
signing the document in cases where complications arise regarding the applicants’ affiliation to both parties.

2. The applicant must have served as a COMELEC volunteer for at least one term of election prior to being a commissioner.

3. The applicant must be able to serve and perform the duties of a COMELEC Commissioner of his/her college for one
complete year, beginning in the first trimester and ending in the third trimester.

4. The applicant must not hold any appointed and/or elected position/s in any USG unit.

5. The applicant must have at least 3 terms left during the time of application.

6. The applicant must come from the college he/she wishes to represent.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR COA COMMISSIONERS

1. The applicant must be able to serve and perform the duties of a COA Commissioner for one complete year, beginning in
the first trimester and ending in the third trimester.

2. The applicant must not hold any appointed and/or elected position/s in any USG unit.

3. The applicant must not have been a candidate for any position in the election preceding his/her appointment.

4. The applicant must have at least 3 terms left during the time of application.

5. The applicant must have basic auditing knowledge to be determined by a screening process to be conducted by the
appointing officers in coordination with the outgoing COA commissioner.

6. The COA Chairman shall have 1 year experience of being an auditor in the Office of the Treasurer.
Qualifications for Prosecuting and Investigating Officers

1. The applicant must not be affiliated or acquainted with anyone involved in the particular case they wish to work on to
avoid any biases in executing their roles.
1.1 This will be ensured through a written certification from both defendant and complainant.
1.2. The complainant has the option to refuse signing the document if the officer is proven affiliated with the
defendant.
1.3. Neither the defendant nor the complainant is allowed to request any officer to be the prosecuting and
investigating officer of a said case.

2. The applicant must have sufficient background and knowledge on the University Student Government and the case he or
she is handling which are to be determined by the current Judiciary.

3. The applicant must be able to serve for the entire duration of the case they wish to work on.
3.1. In unavoidable cases where the applicant backs out during the case, the chief magistrate will serve as the
replacement officer.
3.2. In cases where the defendant is the chief magistrate, the replacement officer will be determined by the majority
vote of the judiciary.

4. The applicant must be willing to temporarily stand as a replacement Magistrate, should he or she be accepted as a
prosecuting officer, in cases where any Magistrate is subjected to an impeachment complaint.

5. The applicant for the Prosecuting and Investigating Officers must have stayed in DLSU for at least two terms.

6. The applicant must have served in any branch of the University Student Government for at least a term.

7. The applicant must not be affiliated to any Political Party to avoid biases in the investigation.
7.1. A signed memorandum of agreement between the officer, complainant and defendant must be signed stating
that the officer is neutral.
7.2. The applicant must pursue an independent stand and must avoid communicating with any member of any
political party during the case.

8. The applicant for the Prosecuting and Investigating Officers must not have any major disciplinary case.

You might also like