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PREAMBLE Section 5. The Association operates by principles of good governance through multi-party
We, the undergraduate students of the Adventist University of the Philippines, in order to glorify the
sovereignty of our Almighty God being our Creator and Redeemer, to honor the pioneer of our Alma
Mater, to promote unity and harmony among ourselves despite of our ethnic, cultural, racial and
international diversity, to commit in nurturing and protecting the well-being of our fellow students
and the University Community, to be respectful of the rules and regulations enacted by this
University and the Philippine Government. Adopt, enact and promulgate this Constitution.
ARTICLE I
NAME AND SEAT
Section 1. The name of this central student government, established under this Constitution, shall be
the Adventist University of the Philippines – Student Association, which shall hereinafter
be referred to as the Association.
Section 2. The Association shall be the sole central and supreme body and official representative of
the Student Body.
Section 3. The seat of the Association shall be in the Student Association Center, Adventist
University of the Philippines – Putingkahoy, Silang, Cavite, which shall hereinafter be
referred to as the University.
ARTICLE II
MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Any students that are officially enrolled in the undergraduate level of the academic
programs of the University are members of the Association, which shall hereinafter be
referred to as the Student Body.
Section 2. The Student Body shall pay a subscription fee as determined by the Senate.
ARTICLE III
DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES, POLICIES AND OBJECTIVES
PRINCIPLES
Section 1. The Student Body, collectively, has no existence that is distinct or separate from that of
the University as an incorporated Religious Educational Institution supervised by the
Seventh-day Adventist Church. Therefore, the Student Body is an inseparable and
integral part of the personality of the University.
Section 2. The Student Body, collectively, is the original and sole repository of all and whatever
authority, granted powers, rights and privileges conferred and all obligations imposed by
Law, by the Philippine Government and by the University.
Section 3. The Association shall have the power of which emanates from the Student Body. It shall
be the sole, unified, autonomous and democratic highest representative body of the
students as guaranteed by the Philippine Constitution and Laws, the University and the
Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Section 4. The Association shall advance the importance of the University’s Statement of
Philosophy, Vision, Mission, Objectives and Goals. It shall serve as the guide of the
Association in achieving the collective interest of the students and participate in putting
these ideals into action.
democracy, participatory governance, honesty, collaboration, transparency and
accountability, unity and cooperation, respect for student rights, fundamental freedoms
and the rule of law.
Section 6. The Association believes that it is one of the instruments that God uses in proclaiming the
everlasting gospel to the entire world in this generation.
POLICIES
Section 7. The Association shall pursue an independent stand on issues affecting its constituency
and the University, not dictated by any other sector, other than the students.
Section 8. The Association shall encourage student and student organizations to promote the welfare
of their fellow students.
Section 9. The Association shall establish and maintain relevant linkages with various student
council and government, government offices, sectoral and cause-oriented groups outside
the University to create venues for technical and resource-sharing.
Section 10. The Association shall pursue a quality Adventist education that is holistic, world class
and of high standards, ensuring that it develops spiritually and socio-civic minded
citizen.
Section 11. The Association shall renounce instruments of policy, activities and undertakings which
are violent in nature, and/or are contrary to the beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist
Church, rules and regulations of the University and/or the laws of the land.
Section 12. The Association shall adopt and implement a policy of public disclosure of all its
transactions involving the interest of the Student Body.
OBJECTIVES
Section 13. The Association shall promote unity and harmony among the Student Body.
Section 14. The Association shall strive to develop a University spirit and work for effective student
participation in its activities.
Section 15. The Association shall help foster the social, political, cultural, and spiritual life of
students.
Section 16. The Association shall recognize the diversity of the Student Body and promote and
protect their cultures.
Section 17. The Association shall protect and promote student rights and welfare, as embodied in
this Constitution, the Student Handbook and the laws of the land.
Section 18. The Association shall manage its resources and funds fairly and efficiently for the
welfare of its members.
Section 19.The Association shall provide essential, effective, and adequate student services.
Section 20. The Association shall serve as the official coordinating channel of the Student Body
with the University Administration, Faculty, Non-academic personnel, parents, and
other sectors of the society.
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Section 21. The Association shall ensure clear student access to the projects and programs of non- 5.3 International, National and Local laws and other legal documents that concern
government and government organizations, of the University and of the Seventh-day
the students and student government.
Adventist Church.
ARTICLE V
Section 22. The Association shall promote pro-active approach on issues affecting the students
COMPOSITION OF THE ASSOCIATION
locally and internationally.
Section 1. The Association is composed of all members of the Executive Board, the Senate, the
Section 23. The Association shall provide venue for the students to serve its fellowmen through
Executive Committee, the Council of Presidents, the Council of Leaders, and the
active community involvement.
Commission on Elections.
Section 24. The Association shall nurture students’ spiritual life and instill in their hearts the passion
ARTICLE VI
to serve God through ministry work.
THE EXECUTIVE BOARD
Section 25. The Association shall promote volunteerism among the Student Body as an active
Section 1. The Executive Board, which shall hereinafter be referred to as EB, shall be the highest
ingredient in nation-building.
governing body and representative authority of the Association.
Section 26. The Association shall develop critical thinking among the studentry and encourage all
Section 2. The EB shall be composed of the:
students to unite themselves and utilize their knowledge, skills and resources to
contribute to nation-building.
2.1 President.
Section 27. The Association shall provide relevant leadership trainings and exposure among the 2.2 Vice President.
Student Body in order to serve efficiently and effectively.
2.3 Speaker.
Section 28. The Association shall conduct such other programs and activities and launch projects as
it may deem necessary and advisable, as long as these are not contrary to the Section 3. The EB shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:
University’s vision and mission.
3.1 To uphold and enforce the provisions stipulated in this Constitution and
ARTICLE IV its bylaws.
THE CONSTITUTION 3.2 To formulate and execute general and specific policies, programs, and
projects of the Association.
Section 1. This Constitution is the fundamental law of Association and binds all duly recognized
3.3 To govern the official affairs of the Association.
student ministries, clubs and organizations by the SAO and all the undergraduate students
3.4 To direct the allocation and disbursement of funds of the Association.
of the University. Therefore, every student shall be obligated to respect and defend this
3.5 To exercise general oversight on independent student projects as
Constitution.
representatives of the student body
Section 2. The validity and legality of this Constitution or any part thereof shall be subject to 3.6 To discuss national, sectoral and University-wide issues and academic-
challenge only through the Senate; if any part or section or Article of this Constitution is related matters, projects, programs and campaigns.
in direct violation of the University rules and regulations and laws of the land and any 3.7 To ensure fair, efficient and effective representation in all University
action taken by the Senate shall then be affirmed by the Student Body in General
committees whose services and decisions affect the welfare of the students.
Referendum.
3.8 To nominate COMELEC Commissioners at the end of their term.
Section 3. A law, policy or practice formulated at any level of the Association that is not an official 3.9 To create such departments, committees, staffs, task forces, and offices as
constitutional amendment, however useful, that is inconsistent with this Constitution, is
may be necessary to discharge its functions and such shall become under the
void to the extent of its inconsistency and any action or omission in contravention of this
office of the President.
Constitution is invalid.
Section 4. Qualification of the President, Vice President, and Speaker.
Section 4. A person or a group of persons may bring an action to the Senate, next to the SAO and
then to the ADCOM for a declaration that any law is inconsistent with, or is in
contravention of this Constitution. If such declaration is made, it is necessary to give a 4.1 Be a bona fide student of the University for at least two consecutive semesters; not
written order to make effect to that declaration. including summer, prior to election;

Section 5. In addition to this Constitution, the laws of Association shall include the following:
4.2 Must have been an officer of the Association or any duly recognized student
ministries, clubs and organizations by the SAO for at least one (1) year.
4.3 At least 18 years of age;
5.1 Acts and resolutions enacted by the Senate; 4.4 Must have attained a GPA of 3.0 in all enrolled subjects cumulatively, preceding
5.2 The Rules and Regulations enacted by the University and those stated in the graduation;
4.5 Maintain a unit load of not less than 15 per semester during his/her term of office;
Student Handbook; and
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4.6 Eligible for election for only one term of office, except for the Vice President and
the Speaker; and
4.7 Bona fide member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
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Section 5. Powers and Duties of the President.
7.5 Rule on all questions of order, subject to appeal by any member of the Senate,
which appeal shall not be debatable, but the member appealing may explain his
appeal for not more than five minutes.
5.1 Be the Chief Executive Officer of the Association.
7.6 Sign and affix the seal of the Association in all resolutions, memorials, writs,
5.2 Be the Association Spokesperson.
warrants and subpoenas issued by the order of the Senate.
5.3 Oversee the internal and external affairs of the Association.
7.7 Enforce all rules, policies and procedures governing the Senate.
5.4 Initiate the implementation of all the decisions of the EB and enactments of the 7.8 Receive periodic reports from all units and members of the Senate whose
Senate. frequency of submission shall be at his/her discretion.
5.5 Sign all resolutions, communications, and papers of the Association. 7.9 Be an ex-officio member of all Senate Standing Committees.
5.6 Preside the EB, EXECOM, and COP meetings. 7.10 Have administrative supervision over the Senate and all its units.
7.11 Be the official representative of the Senate in functions that require its
5.7 An ex-officio member of Senate, COLE, and all Association executive department presence.
committees. 7.12 Ensure that the Senate follows properly the parliamentary procedure
5.8 Appoint Cabinet Secretaries, and Advisers with concurrence of a 2/3 vote of the during sessions.
members present of the Senate. However, when the Senate is not in session, the
Section 8. The EB shall determine the frequency and the time of their meetings.
President can make interim appointment.
5.9 Co-ordinate activities of the Association.
Section 9. The final decision of the EB must be unanimous.
5.10 Represent the Association in all occasions and events where there is a need for
representation.
ARTICLE VII
5.11 Supervise supplementary associations and groups.
THE STUDENT SENATE
5.12 Monitor, directly or indirectly, the performance of all offices and committees with
executive functions in the Association.
Section 1. The Student Senate, which shall hereinafter be referred to as Senate, shall be the highest
5.13 Perform in general, such duties and functions as may be necessary to the policy-making body of the Association. All legislative powers herein shall be vested
discharge and performance of this office and as shall be required by the EB, upon the Senate, except to the extent reserved to the Student Body by the provisions on
Senate or a General Referendum of the Student Body. initiative and referendum.

Section 6. Powers and Duties of the Vice President.

Section 2. Powers and Duties of the Senate.

6.1 President’s Associate and general assistant. 2.1 Pass any measures necessary for this Constitution to function.
6.2 The Vice President shall, in the absence of the President, assume all duties of the 2.2 Enact the policies and recommendations set by the EB.
office of President. 2.3 Establish, revise and ratify the working policies of the Association.
6.3 Represent the President of the Association in meetings upon being asked to do so 2.4 Recommend changes in University policy.
by the President. 2.5 Pass resolutions for addressing issues on behalf of the Student Body.
6.4 Preside COLE meetings
2.6 Establish adequate mechanisms for consultation with and participation of the
6.5 Perform such other functions the EB or President may so direct. Student Body in the affairs of the Association.
6.6 Assume the office of President in the event of : 2.7 Call and sponsor University-wide referenda on any student issue.
2.8 Approve all annual budgets and audit expenditures of the Association.
6.6.1 Resignation of the President
2.9 Approve the appointment of Cabinet Secretaries and Advisers made by the
6.6.2 Impeachment of the President President.
6.6.3 Incapacitation of the President 2.10 Promote and handle all matters relating to the enhancement and
6.6.4 Death of the President. protection of student rights.
2.11 Provide assistance to those students who may be deprived of their rights
Section 7. Powers and Duties of the Speaker. 2.12 Monitoring the quality of student life here in the University.
2.13 Extend the term of office of any elected official, and appointed commissions
7.1 Must be elected among and by University Senators. where and when such becomes necessary.
2.14 Approve members of the COMELEC.
7.2 Call and preside over the sessions of the Senate.
7.3 Call special Senate sessions. 2.15 Initiate amendment to this Constitution in accordance with the
7.4 Preserve order and decorum during sessions, and, in case of disturbance or amendment provisions of this Constitution.
2.16 May discipline its Members as provided in their rules of procedure.
disorderly conduct within the premises where the session is being held, take such
measures as he may deem advisable or as the Senate may direct.
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2.17 Have such powers and perform such other duties as the University may Section 2. The EXECOM shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities:
from time to time delegate or grant to it.
2.1 Uphold and enforce the provisions stipulated in this Constitution and the
Section 3. Composition of the Senate. resolutions and policies enacted by the EB and Senate.
2.2 Outline and enforce basic policies and procedures for the efficient and effective
3.1 Speaker; implementation of student activities, projects and programs and enforce these and
3.2 Twelve (12) University Senators elected at large by the University Student Body assign departments or ad hoc for the implementation of such upon the approval of
the EB.
population; and
2.3 Make a calendar of events, plan activities, propose projects, and make annual
3.3 One (1) College Senators elected at large by the College Student Body population. budgets.

Section 4. Senator.
2.4 Oversee the running of Association activities and departments.
2.5 Make proposals to the EB on improvements for the effective running of the
4.1 Voting member of the Senate; Association affairs.

4.2 Must have attained a GPA of 2.85 in all enrolled subjects cumulatively preceding Section 3. The EXECOM shall be composed of:
graduation;
4.3 With a unit load of not less than 12 per semester during his/her term of office; 3.1 President.
4.4 Shall be eligible for election for any number of terms of office; and 3.2 Vice-President.
4.5 Shall have the following powers, duties and responsibilities: 3.3 Cabinet Secretaries.

4.5.1 Participate actively in Senate sessions.
4.5.2 Eligible for appointment as chairperson or member of a parliamentary
committee, both permanent and Adhoc.
4.5.3 Conduct regular consultations with his/her constituents regarding
academic and non-academic matters.
4.5.4 Review existing policies and resolutions.
4.5.5 Pass resolutions and legislations that are of relevance to the studentry.
Section 4. The members of the EXECOM shall determine the frequency and the time of their
meetings.
ARTICLE IX
CABINET
Section 1. The Cabinet is an arm of the Association specifically created by the EB as a functional
unit that focuses on and addresses specific aspects and needs of the entire Student Body.

4.5.6 Be entitled to a copy of all minutes, resolutions and the like that concerns
the legislative proceedings.
4.5.7 Perform other functions as deemed necessary by the EB and the Senate.
Section 5. University Senators shall be given first priority to be the chairperson in at least one (1)
standing committee.
Section 6. The Senate shall enact its rules of procedure and of election and removal of its officers
and their duties and qualifications.
Section 7. The first session of the Senate shall be held a week after their proclamation as official
winner. The only purpose of this session is to elect its officers.
Section 8. The Senate shall have an automatic appropriation of five percent (5%) of the total annual
budget for the current Academic Year which shall be allocated for parliamentary
trainings.
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. Declaration of Policy
2.1 The Cabinet shall be organized and maintained to ensure their capacity to plan and
implement programs in accordance with established University and Association
policies. Their efficacy and necessity shall be reviewed by the EB yearly.
2.2 The Cabinet shall be grouped primarily on the basis of major functions to operate
efficiently and minimize duplication and overlapping of activities.
2.3 The functions of the Cabinets shall be decentralized in order to reduce bureaucracy.
Adequate authority shall be given to Cabinet Secretary in order to perform
department functions effectively and independently.
Section 3. Cabinet Secretaries shall be given a free hand in determining their organizational
structure, and selection of members. However, the President reserves the right to
approve or disapprove the appointment of such members.
ARTICLE X
THE COLLEGE DIVISIONS AND SUPPLEMENTARY ASSOCIATIONS
Section 1. The organizational divisions of the Association, which shall hereinafter be referred to as
Divisions, shall be by Colleges.

Section 2. The Student Supplementary Associations, which shall hereinafter be referred to as SSA,
shall be determined by the Senate.
Section 3. The Divisions and SSA shall be extensions of the Association in the respective Colleges
and sectors; hence they shall be part of the Association.
Section 4. Powers, Duties and Responsibilities of the Divisions and SSA.
4.1 To discuss and decide on matters which are pertinent to their respective Division
and sector.
4.2 To determine the vision and mission of their Division and sector 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 Association which are
pertinent to each respective Division and sector
4.5 To handle Division and sector affairs and the needs of the different majors and
batches.
4.6 To organize and implement programs for their particular Division and sector.
4.7 To ratify their own constitution and by-laws within the framework of this
Constitution.
Section 5. All SSA shall be subject to accreditation, before any of its Presidents shall assume their
functions in the Association. They must:
5.1 Submit a notice of election signed by their respective Advisers and duly notified
by the COMELEC and SAO.
5.2 Submit a copy of their Constitution and By-Laws, accomplished activities and
financial report and list of officers and activities to the Senate;
5.3 Satisfy all guidelines set forth by the Senate and this Constitution; and
5.4 Be ratified by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate.
Section 6. Division Presidents shall assume their functions in the Association upon submission of a
notice of election signed by the Deans and duly notified by the COMELEC and SAO.
Section 7. The Presidents of Division and duly accredited SSA shall take their oath of office before
the President.
Section 8. The Association shall ensure that each Division and SSA has their own duly ratified
constitution and by-laws. If in case there is none, the Association shall assist in the
drafting of their constitution and by-laws.
Section 9. The COMELEC shall ensure that annual elections in the Divisions and SSA shall be held
according to this Constitution. If for any reason the Divisions and SSA fail to elect their
officers, the Senate is hereby mandated to pass resolutions calling for such election.
Section 10. The Senate shall enact rules to protect the students’ rights to represent, to choose and to
elect their duly constituted officers in the Division and SSA.
ARTICLE XI
COUNCIL OF PRESIDENTS
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Section 1. The Council of President, which shall hereinafter be referred to as COP, shall be
composed of the Association President, Association Vice-President, all Divisions and
SSA Presidents, and the Editors-in-Chief of the University Voice and Silang Memoirs.
The President shall convene and preside over meetings.
Section 2. Powers and Responsibilities of the COP:
2.1 To serve as a venue for coordinating and scheduling the various programs
and projects of the Association;
2.2 To serve as a venue for dialogue leading to the effective and efficient
planning, implementation, and evaluation of projects; and
2.3 To meet monthly or as often as necessary to discharge its functions.
ARTICLE XII
COUNCIL OF LEADERS
Section 1. The Council of Leaders, which shall hereinafter be referred to as COLE, shall serve as an
advisory body of the Association, without any executive or legislative functions.
Section 2. The COLE shall be composed of the:
2.1 President from each duly recognized student ministries, clubs and organization by
the SAO and Senate.
2.2 President of each Men’s and Women’s Dormitories.
Section 3. The COLE shall serve as a venue where:
3.1 The student leaders can suggest projects, programs and actions to the
Association regarding national, sectoral and University-wide and academic-related
issues.
3.2 The Association leadership can gather feedback on the projects, programs and
actions being undertaken by the Association.
3.3 The student leaders can assess the performance of the Association and recommend
necessary steps to further attain its objectives.
3.4 Information regarding Association affairs can be disseminated directly to the
student leaders.
3.5 Coordinate the activities and address the issues on behalf of their student
ministries, clubs and organization.
3.6 Participate in the programs, projects and activities of the Association.
Section 4. The COLE shall be presided by the Vice President and shall be convene once a month.
The Vice President shall have the prerogative to call emergency meetings at times which
warrant the immediate advice of the COLE.
Section 5. The Senate shall formulate an accreditation and recognition system on all student
ministries, clubs and organizations and provide benefits and privileges thereof.
Section 6. Any student ministries, clubs and organizations wishing to be recognized must:
6.1 Submit a letter of recommendation from the SAO, copy of their Constitution and
By-Laws, accomplished report and list of officers and activities to the Senate;
6.2 Satisfy all guidelines set forth by the Senate, SAO and this Constitution; and

6.3 Be ratified by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate.
ARTICLE XIII
CONSTITUTIONAL COMMISSIONS
Section 1. Commission on Elections.
1.1 There shall be a permanent Commission on Elections, which shall hereinafter be
referred to as COMELEC.
1.2 The COMELEC shall be composed one (1) Commissioner coming from each
Division appointed by the outgoing EB and approved by the outgoing Senate.
1.3 The Commissioners 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.
1.4 No Commissioner shall be eligible to run in an election during his term of office.
In case of resignation, he shall be qualified to run one year after he resigned.
Section 2. The Functions of the COMELEC shall be to:
2.1 Enforce and administer all rules and regulations and formulate guidelines and a
code of procedure in accordance to this Constitution and other rules and
regulations passed by the Senate relative to the conduct of the particular election
for the holding of which it is has been constituted.
2.2 Adopt and uphold the Election Code passed by the Senate.
2.3 Receive the application for election of candidates who qualify for election for
particular positions as provided in this Constitution and who shall have been
certified by the Registrar’s office and the SAO.
2.4 Register political parties which shall present collectively, a platform or program
of government.
2.5 Penalize or disqualify candidates and/or political parties who violate the Election
Code.
2.6 Educate voters on the voting process to be used in the Association elections.
2.7 Encourage students to vote.
2.8 Recommend to the Senate, effective measures to minimize Election spending,
including publication of propaganda and campaign materials, and to prevent and
penalize all infractions of rules and regulations provided by this Constitution and
the Senate for the conduct of the election.
2.9 Submit to the Senate a comprehensive report on the conduct of the elections.
2.10 Organise and supervise the elections processes of casting of votes, transffering and
securing of ballot boxes and counting of the votes cast by the electorate.
2.11 Announce the results of the election.
2.12 Enforce and administer all rules and regulations relative to the conduct of an
election, plebiscite, initiative, referendum and recall.
2.13 Conduct continuing orientation and education about the functions of the officers
of the Association to the Student body.
Section 3. Commission of Constitutional Review.
3.1 There shall be a Commission of Constitutional Review upon a vote of
two-thirds (2/3) of all the Members of the Senate.
7
3.2 The President shall nominate a Chairperson, Secretary and five
Commissioners and then submit them to the Senate for approval and confirmation.
3.3 The Commission shall be dissolved by the Senate immediately after the
New Constitution shall have been ratified.
Section 4. The Functions of the CRC shall be to:
4.1 Conduct a research among the Student Body concerning constitutional
needs and preferred constitutional systems of administration.
4.2 Review and revise this Constitution, and submit it to the Senate for
approval.
4.3 Promote and lobby for the ratification of the new constitution among the
Student Body.
4.4 Supervise and assist in the ratification process.
4.5 Submit final ratified Constitution to the Senate as the report of their
findings, alongside financial expenditure.
ARTICLE XIV
ELECTIONS
Section 1. There shall be a General Election whereby a President, Vice President and Senators shall
be elected at large.
Section 2. General Election Day shall be held within the month of February.
Section 3. One month before the Election Day, the COMELEC shall make a public proclamation of
the major events and their dates and hence declare the Election period officially open.
The COMELEC shall officially prepare and supervise the elections at all times.
Section 4. Unless otherwise fixed by the COMELEC, the election period shall commence three
weeks before the day of the election and shall end three days after
.
Section 5. A free and open party system shall be allowed to evolve to the free choice of the Student
Body.
Section 6. All candidates for President, Vice President and Senator must satisfy the requirements for
qualification to run for the respective office as provided by this Constitution.
Section 7. All approved and certified candidates with their respective parties will campaign
throughout the campaign period allocated by the COMELEC, before the Election Day.
Section 8. Election Results:
8.1 The results shall be made public officially not earlier than the third day
and not later than the tenth day after the election. An unofficial announcement of
the result shall be made available soon after the canvassing is completed according
to the discretion of the COMELEC.
8.2 The Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates having the highest
number of votes shall be proclaimed elected, but in the case whereby two or more
shall have an equal and highest number of votes, one of them shall forthwith be
chosen by the vote of a majority of all the members of the existing Senate.
 8
8.3 In the case of the University Senators, the top twelve shall be proclaimed
elected but in case two or more shall have an equal number of votes for the twelfth
slot, one of them shall forthwith be chosen by the vote of all the members of the
existing Senate.
8.4 In case of the College Senator, the candidate having the highest number
of votes shall be proclaimed elected, but in case whereby two or more shall have
an equal and highest number of votes, one of them shall forthwith be chosen by
the vote of a majority of all members of the existing Senate.

Section 9. There shall always be an appropriation from the Association fund for the Election
Process. The Senate shall have the sole power to appropriate the budget of the
COMELEC. This amount shall be released to COMELEC, prior to the election period.
After the election, COMELEC shall submit a financial and procedural report to the
Senate. A balance, if any shall be reverted to the general fund of the Association.

ARTICLE XV
PUBLICATIONS

Section 1. The Student Body shall be the publisher of The University Voice (UV) and The Silang
Memoirs (SM). Therefore, being the publisher, the Student Body has the sole authority
over these publications.

Section 2. The budget of these publications shall be submitted to the Senate for auditing.

Section 3. Policies involving finances in the course of publishing the University Voice and the
Silang Memoirs shall, before they can be implemented, be approved by the Senate.

Section 4. The Senate shall by law passed a publication code and a General Referendum of the
Student Body shall decide to approve it.

ARTICLE XVI
FINANCES

Sections 1. The Association shall obtain funds from:

1.1 Subscription from the students;

1.2 Donations;
1.3 Grants; and
1.4 Any other legitimate way to raise funds.

Section 2. Adjustment of Fee figure.

The Senate shall hold sole authority to increase or decrease the amount of the
subscription fee and the SM and UV fees, with the endorsement of the University
Finance Committee. In a case whereby the increase exceeds 20% of the current amount,
a General Referendum of the Student Body shall decide to implement such an increase.
 9
Section 6. A two-thirds vote of all its members is necessary for a guilty verdict. An officer found
Sections 3. Use of Funds. guilty shall be considered impeached.

3.1 Financing student projects and activities which are in keeping with the objectives Section 7. An officer impeached from office shall be forever barred from holding any future
Association office.
of the Association as provided for in this Constitution.
3.2 Acquisition of valuable and economically viable and necessary assets for
promoting the official functions of the Association. ARTICLE XVIII
3.3 Producing the Association Publications and maintaining the Student Publications. MEETINGS

3.4 Maintaining the Association and its functions. Section 1. Senate Sessions.
3.5 Maintaining the Students Center.
3.6 Any other purpose that shall be approved by the Senate. 1.1 The Senate shall make a calendar of its sessions and shall determine the number of
its meetings in each Regular Session.
Section 4. Budget. 1.2 The Regular Sessions shall be determined by the Senate.

4.1 The budget appropriated by EB shall be passed to Senate for the

1.3 Special sessions shall be held at times other than the Regular Sessions as need
shall arise.
approval.
4.2 The Senate shall have the final authority on the budget.
1.4 A quorum shall be equivalent to fifty percent plus one of all its Members. The
Senate cannot make a decision without a quorum.
Section 5. Only an act of the Senate can authorize the release of funds to the Association for any 1.5 It is mandatory for every member of the Senate to attend all regular session
purpose at all times. personally. The Secretariat Committee shall issue monthly attendance reports and
published and/or post it at the bulletin board.
Section 6. The Senate shall by law enact the proper administration of the budget.
Section 2. EXECOM Meetings.
ARTICLE XVII
IMPEACHMENT 2.1 The regular meeting shall be determine by its members.
Section 1. Any elected or appointed official may be removed from office by impeachment on the 2.2 Special meetings shall be held at times other than the regular meetings as need
grounds of: shall arise.

1.1 Any willful violation of this Constitution and its by-laws.
1.2 Gross negligence of duty and betrayal of public trust.
1.3 Providing false information to qualify for election.
1.4 Illegal disbursement of funds.
1.5 Any behavior which undermines the integrity of the Association.
1.6 Any other forms of gross misconduct as provided by the Association policies.
Section 2. The COMELEC has the sole authority to initiate, try and decide all the cases of
impeachment.
Section 3. Any student or officer of the Association may file a resolution of impeachment against
any Association officer. The resolution must be addressed to the COMELEC.
Section 4. In the case of such an event, the COMELEC shall evaluate within fifteen (15) academic
days the accusation to determine if there is sufficient cause to continue with the
impeachment proceedings. If the accusation does not have merit, to be determined by a
majority vote, the proceedings shall cease. If the accusation is found to have merit, also to
be determined by a majority vote, the COMELEC shall continue with the impeachment
proceedings.
Section 3. Joint Senate and EXECOM Meeting.
This Special Meeting may be called by the President: Provided that, the agenda shall be
furnished to its respective Members.
ARTICLE XIX
VACANCIES
Section 1. In case of incapacity in the discharge of duties, removal from office or resignation of the
President, the Vice President shall take the position of the President.
Section 2. In case of incapacity in the discharge of duties, removal from office or resignation of the
Vice President, the Speaker shall take the position of Vice President.
Section 3. In case of incapacity in the discharge of duties, removal from office or resignation of both
the President and Vice President, the Speaker shall take the position of the President then
the Senate shall elect the Vice President and Speaker.
Section 4. In case of both the office of the President, Vice- President, Speaker became vacant at the
same time the Senate shall call for a special election to fill the vacancies of President,
Vice-President and Speaker.

Section 5. The impeachment proceedings shall be presided by Association Adviser. Section 5. In case of vacancy in Office of the Senator during the term of office, the following
guidelines shall be followed:
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5.1 The candidate who obtained the next highest number of votes after the lowest
ranked, in terms of votes, elected Senator shall take the office.
5.2 He/she may be duly qualified, proclaim and inducted into office according to the
provisions of this Constitution and the Election Code.
5.3 If the numbers of vacancies exceed the number of active Senators in which case
the President shall call a special election to fill the vacancies.

ARTICLE XX
ADVISER
Section 1. There shall be at least five (5) Association Advisers. The President shall designate the
specific function of such adviser.
Section 2. The President shall appoint the Association Advisers and submit it to the Senate for
confirmation and then to the ADCOM for notification.
Section 3. The Association Adviser shall be a non-voting ex-officio members of the Senate,
EXECOM, Committees, Commissions and all supplementary organs in all meetings as
they shall deem necessary.
Section 4. The Association Adviser shall primarily give advice and suggestion on the effective and
efficient administration and function of Association. The Senate shall by law formulate
additional function of the Association Adviser.
Section 5. The term of office of the Association Advisers shall be co-terminus with the elected
Association officers.
ARTICLE XXI
GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section 1. All the officers of the Association and its supplementary organs shall take this pledge
before assuming their office:
“I do solemnly pledge that I will faithfully and conscientiously fulfill my duties as
the…….. (office) of the Association (or its supplementary organs) of the Adventist
University of the Philippines, preserve and defend its constitution, execute its laws, do
justice to every person, and consecrate myself to the service of the Association. So
help me God.”
Section 2. The President or his duly authorized representative shall sit in a meeting of University
committee, whenever the interests of the Association are concerned.
Section 3. All the acts, resolutions, orders and petitions of the Association shall bear the signatures
of the President and an Adviser before they can be executed.
Section 4. Upon termination of each term, the outgoing officers of the Association or any of its
organs shall turn over the records, equipment, funds and other property of the Association
to their respective successors formally.
Section 5. The term of office of the President, Vice President, Senators and all elected and appointed
officers shall begin on the first day of April and shall end at the last day of March the
following year.
Section 6. The outgoing officers of the Association shall orient the incoming officers on their
functions in the Association in order to ensure smooth transition of responsibilities.
Section 7. All student shall be given a copy of this Constitution. The Association shall appropriate
funds for the printing and distribution of this Constitution. The COMELEC shall ensure
that the Association shall have a participation in the orientation of all students during
enrollment period in order to promote the Association and this Constitution.
Section 8. The President shall make an effort to the SAO that the Association shall hold the Student
Convocation at least once a month.
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Section 9. The Senate shall adopt a By-Law that is consistent with this Constitution and which
may be deemed necessary for the Association to effectively and efficiently execute its
functions. These By-Laws may be amended by the majority vote of all the members of
the Senate at any regular or special session, Provided that, notice of intention to call such
a vote is given at least seven days earlier.
ARTICLE XXII
AMENDMENTS
Section 1. All amendments to this Constitution shall be initiated by the Senate upon a vote of two-
thirds (2/3) of all its Members. Then the Senate shall call and form a Constitutional
Review Commission.
Section 2. Any registered student with their names, signatures, and student numbers of not less than
100 registered students per College may bring forth to the Senate a petition to amend this
Constitution. The proposed amendments shall be decided by a majority vote of the entire
Student Body.
Section 3. The revision of this Constitution shall only become valid and binding, when ratified by a
majority vote of the Student Body cast in a plebiscite which shall be held not earlier than
twenty (20) days nor later thirty (30) days after the approval of such amendments.
Section 4. No amendment or revision of this Constitution shall be authorized within four (4) years
following the ratification of this Constitution.
ARTICLE XXIII
TRANSITORY PROVISIONS
Section 1. All existing resolutions, codes and policies consistent with this Constitution shall remain
operative until amended, repealed or revoked.
Section 2. The Senate shall cause to publish a special issue of the University Voice which shall
feature the new constitution of the Association. The expenditure shall be borne from the
summer and first semester revenues.
Section 3. Article XI of the 2006 Constitution shall remain operative unless a Publication Code has
been ratified pursuant to Article XV Section 4 of this Constitution.
Section 4. The Senators elected during the 2010 By-election shall remain in office at the end of the
first semester of C.Y. 2011-2012.
Section 5. The Senators elected during the 2010 By-Election are University Senators pursuant to
Article VII Section 3.2 of this Constitution, thus they are qualified to be elected as
Speaker. If in case one of them is elected as speaker he shall remain in office until April
1, 2012.
ARTICLE XXIV
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 XXV
EFFECTIVITY
This Constitution shall take effect immediately upon its ratification by a majority of the votes cast in
a plebiscite held for the purpose and shall supersede all previous constitutions.
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This Constitution of the Adventist University of the Philippines – Student
Association was drafted and proposed by the Constitutional Review
Commission on December 2, 2010. It was officially approved by the General
Assembly on December 9, 2010 and ratified by a majority vote of the Student
Body cast in a plebiscite held on January 21, 2011. It is accordingly signed by
the members of the Constitutional Review Commission, this January 21, 2011
at the Student Association Center, whose signatures are hereunder affixed.

Signed:

Hon. Crystal Margarette E. Solas

Secretary/General Assembly Clerk

Hon. Duchelle Kris O. Delizo

Commissioner/Senator

Hon. Joseph A. Flores

Commissioner/Senator

Hon. Ryan J. Martinez

Commissioner/Vice President

Hon. Leonyl C. Arit

Chairman/Senator