Opposition on removing “subversive” materials from school libraries continues to mount, an issue ignited by the removal of peace talk references in university libraries and the recent Commission on Higher Education–Cordillera Administrative Region’s memo.in their library and online platforms. After taking backlash, the office clarified that it merely informed the schools of things discussed in the anti-communist task force meeting.
“As a university, UP Baguio is morally bound to guide its students towards an enlightened understanding of social dynamics. This responsibility can only be fulfilled by the promotion of critical thinking that allows students to ask boundless questions and make informed conclusions,” the statement said.expressed opposition to removing “subversive” books and materials.
The organization also called on their fellow librarians and university officials to protect libraries from censorship of any kind and resist actions that compromise academic freedom.. They said the memo discourages critical thinking, which “will raise a future generation that is ignorant and subservient.”
Senator Leila De Lima filed Senate Resolution No. 933 to investigate law enforcement agencies’ policies censuring book contents In September, the Kalinga State University, Isabela State University, and Aklan State University removed books published by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines from their libraries. They turned over the materials to the military and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency.