Iskolar ng Centenaryo, Third Bagro

by: Sam Glysdi Sauler

In an academe that is usually referred to as ‘the University of Activists,’ it is next to impossible for a student leader to ever avoid detractors and harsh critics. Nevertheless, Herminio “Third” Bagro, the University of the Philippines’ Student Council Chairperson, proves that adversities and complications are challenges one has to face to be able to fully serve his men.

Coming from the party list, ALYANSA (Alyansa ng mga Mag-aaral Para sa Panlipunang Katwiran at Kaunlaran), and having served four terms in the UP student politics in different positions, Third’s already got a first-hand encounter on how his school wasn’t spared from dirty politics. “May mga unhealthy practices like mud-slinging, mga ganun. Merong mga lumalabas na kung ano anong black propaganda pag nakapag campaign na.”

“Sinungaling daw ako,” says Third, describing the worst accusation thrown to him. “Member kasi ako ng isang frat,” he continues, “Upsilon Sigma Phi,  tapos nung two days before the election, may mga lumabas na pictures sa internet tapos allegedly depicting hazing practices, pero wala naman ako sa picture na yun pero ang nangyari. Dahil member ako nun, ako na rin yun, so parang ‘don’t vote for me.’” Third then got disappointed because the photos did not accurately reflect what he was campaigning for.

However, Third still believes the inevitability of detractors. “Ako, basta naman constructive yung criticisms ok lang kasi may borderline distinction between constructive and detractions, wala hindi na lang natin papansinin. Pasok sa isang tenga, labas sa kabila,“ he says.

“So, ang basic belief ko na lang, you can’t please everybody but you can please some people,” says Third when asked on how he handles his critics.

Burnt gallons of midnight oil
Bearing the highest position a student could ever get in UP, Third’s leadership career didn’t start overnight. In retrospect, Third was also a student council president when he was still in high school, Juan Sumulong Memorial Junior College where he also graduated as the valedictorian. In college, at the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP), he joined student council in his junior year where he served as the councilor and later, as the chairperson. He went back to the student politics when he got into his third year at the UP law school.
Third graduated Cum Laude in Philosophy and has lead numerous committees and projects. He had also been a recipient to several leadership awards.

Third’sday
His term as the president, which started in April this year, has been good so far. “Nagagawa naman yung mga projects tapos marami namang committees na tasked to do certain jobs,” he says.

On a typical day, Third fills his schedule up with a lot of conferences, emergency meetings, regular general student council assemblies, and classes. Good thing he copes with stress easily, by watching films, and laughing with friends.

With all the 25 colleges in UP, it’s amazing to hear that he manages to get all the work done in a diplomatic fashion, without it being a daunt task. “It’s a normal year,” he describes.

This senior law student admits he hasn’t perfected the art of time management yet. But according to him, as long as he has his handy notepad and planner—and sometimes his trust-worthy photographic memory, he can get the work done excellently.

He doesn’t limit himself to all the serious stuff, though. He sings, too. In fact, he dreams of being a balladeer!
Third also talked about his family from where he draws all his strength from. The second in the brood of four, he grew up in a humble and supportive environ. His parents support him in his endeavors and shower him with love and care. Deeply supported by his family who never failed to trust his skills, he stood out.

Whether UP’s the ‘microcosm of the Philippines,’ or the ‘melting pot of all social stratas,’ Third Bagro will always be the centennial president, a face to remember, a part of the hall forever.