Students of De la Salle University (DLSU)-Dasmariñas protested at its campus in Cavite on May 31 to condemn the administration’s dismissal of student leader Paolo Tarra. Tarra was sanctioned with “non re-admission” due to his alleged violation of the university’s handbook that prohibits joining and encouraging to join “unrecognized organizations” on campus.

Tarra is currently the coordinator of the Coalition of Concerned Lasallians (CCL) at DLSU-D. He led the campaigns for the democratic rights and well-being of university students.

On May 8, the Student Wellness and Formation Office (SWAFO) of DLSU-D summoned Tarra for a “hearing” related to the case filed against him. Contrary to expectations, Tarra’s side was not heard and he was simply sanctioned.

Before the protest, Tarra submitted an appeal to the Office of Student Services regarding his case. CCL and Anakbayan Kalayaan led the student action on campus. Other Southern Tagalog youth organizations also joined the action.

Around 30 university guards, police and SWAT tried to break up the protest. They also tried to seize their placards and streamers. Groups confronted them and asserted their right to assemble and express themselves.

Tarra was also the target of harassment by the National Task Force (NTF)-Elcac in February and May. State agents visited his house in Trece Martires City. They “talked” to Tarra’s parents and showed them pictures of Tarra participating in activities.

The military agents also insisted on talking to Tarra in person on the pretext that they were afraid he would become a “rebel”. They even warned the family of their return for another talk and make them sign some documents.