I was in a hurry on my way to clinic to get my medical certificate. This day is the last day to pass my absence excuse slip at CON department; and I have to hurry to make it on time. The medical records wasn't able to make my medical certificate on the day of my consultation so I needed to go back there during my free time; but the problem is, every time I go there at noon (lunch break) or in the afternoon (after classes), the staff are having their lunch or the OPD (out patient department) is already close. That is why I cut my Neurological class today just to make sure that when I go there, I'll be able to catch them on time.
I called my boyfriend to take me to the clinic with his motorcycle so I could save some time. The AUP clinic is like, 1km away from CON. It would take me 20 mins just to go back and forth. I didn't wanna miss Neuro class that much.
Here is the thing, while we were on our way to the clinic, a guard called our attention and said "Bawal na ang opposite sex sa motor!" I was very frustrated that I answered back.
Who would not be frustrated right? What do they want us to do? Do they want me to get down from my boyfriend's motorcycle and walk all the way to the clinic? My GOD!!?? This is the new generation and motorcycle is a way of transportation! They told us to go to the SAO if we have complaints.. and so we did.
On that afternoon, we went to SAO to talk to Pastor Perdon. I asked him why do they implement such regulation, and he immediately said "It's one kind of Physical Intimacy". Physical intimacy? How malicious! He said parents are asking "Has AUP gone wild?" Then why is it that my parents and grandparents have different opinion?
I mean.. look at the other side.. not all women in AUP know how to operate a motorcycle; and many times, women need a ride, especially in times when they have a lot of things to carry.. or in a hurry... or sick!
Here's another case, if you are a woman (living outside the campus) who joins a small group and goes in a meeting every thursday night; and your meeting finishes at 10 pm; and you have guy groupmates with motorcycle (also living outside the campus).. are you still going to walk alone in the dark outside the campus, knowing that it is not really safe for a woman like you to walk alone outside?
The rule is not really helpful to students.. and not applicable to AUP! Why? Not only students live inside AUP but also families.. There are students who are married... If they are going to say that the rule should apply to everyone.. then they should also prohibit opposite sex motor-back riding to married couple.
Another one.. what's the difference with a couple riding at the back of the car with a couple riding the motorcycle? It's even more intimate when you are at the back of the car.. DUH? They can even hold each other's private parts without the people outside noticing.
Don't you think AUP administration should revise the Rule? Yes it is right that other students are abusing the rule.. but it is also students' (especially women's) right to a better transportation... an easier schooling... DUH? Sa University of the Philippines nga may JEEP! AUP is also a community.. not just a small school! They should consider some revisions like.. "Couples can ride the motorcycle as long they are not doing any malicious act like hugging.. kissing.. holding hands..." Right?
AUP should come up with a rule where the administration and the students would meet an agreement. They should not just make rules because they think that it would be pleasant to the eyes of the aged. Afterall..a school is for students anyway.
