University of the Philippines (UP) President Angelo Jimenez responded to claims of elitism within the state university, highlighting efforts to diversify its student body and dispel misconceptions about its “burgis” (elite) image.
In an exclusive correspondence with the Manila Standard, Jimenez acknowledged that while private high school graduates make up a significant portion of UP’s Metro Manila campuses, this does not reflect the composition of the entire university system.
“Our enrolment profile may appear to favor graduates from private high schools, but the perception that the university is for the ‘elite’ is concentrated solely in Metro Manila campuses,” he said in Filipino by e-mail.
Jimenez attributed the trend to a higher number of UP College Admission Test (CAT) applicants from private schools, who previously accounted for two-thirds of all examinees.
However, he proudly noted that in the 2024 UPCAT public school graduates now make up 54 percent of examinees—an increase from 46 percent in 2022.
“This year, we’ve finally tipped the balance,” Jimenez said, adding that this milestone was achieved through the collective efforts of UP volunteers, who conducted review sessions in rural areas, and the university’s inclusive policies.
Among these initiatives is the expansion of “Lingap Iskolar,” a program aimed at providing greater support to underprivileged students.
The issue of elitism resurfaced online after a 2022 study conducted by UP professors revealed that wealthier students often enjoy an “income advantage.” Jimenez, however, assured the public that UP has been addressing this challenge head-on.
“A university of the people is not only defined in terms of its policy on admissions but also in how we mold our students. We are the people’s university because of how we inculcate service to the nation and their own community among our students and teachers,” the UP president said.
