English-only policy: Get out of your comfort zone

The Pamantasan ng Cabuyao has faced criticism for its "English-only" policy, but the PNC's highest official remains steadfast in his commitment to educating students to "think out of the box and learn English."

- By BUM TENORIO JR.

"I understand the reception of the school community to the program. The usual expectation is that people do not like to go out of their comfort zone. They don't like to struggle," said PNC president-OIC Librado Dimaunahan.

"You never grow if you don’t want to go out of the box or your comfort zone. Try something new; we have to challenge the people, the students. I intend to do that. I’m convinced we need English proficiency,” he added.

Dimaunahan clarified that the viral backlash could have been avoided if the management information system (MIS) department of the university had been more careful with its job.

The university is currently under fire for its language policy that requires everyone who steps on campus to communicate exclusively in English in the name of producing “globally competent” graduates.

“I did not use the ‘English-only policy.’ Those are not my words. My program is for the PNC to be an English-speaking campus,” he said.

“Our MIS section added the ‘EnglishOnly Policy’ (in the social media post). Again, those are not my words. They posted it (art card) without clearing it with me. But the harm has been done. We have moved forward,” he added.

The STAR attempted to reach the MIS department of the PNC, also known as University of Cabuyao, but has yet to receive a reply.