That the present period is a critical time in history is no longer a cliché but a sobering warning. Because the primary economic engine that is America has stumbled, the rest of the world is scrambling to adjust. Government reassurances notwithstanding, the Philippines is not immune from contagion; in fact unsettling evidence of the impact is already being noted at regional and province levels.

In Cebu City some of our own stakeholders have already manifested their apprehensions about possible tuition fee adjustments. As demanded by CHED and due process, and after consultation, we are now issuing the following announcement.

The USC administration, College Faculty Association (CFA) and the Administrative Employees Association (ADEA) have jointly agreed that for Academic Year 2009-2010, ALL FEES in ALL departments shall be MAINTAINED at their 2008-2009 levels.

Although this common decision is dictated by the global economic crisis, it is also the product of discernment in the spirit of our vocation as Christian educators. It aims to help new and continuing students of USC and their families to cope with the times even as they seek education in our institution.

Rest assured that the Administration shall partner with CFA and ADEA to look for ways to help faculty and staff to lighten the sacrifices they have graciously assumed to help others cope with the economic difficulties we all face today.
We invite each member of the USC academic and student communities to be more proactive in helping to cut expenses in our operations. An obvious start is avoiding wastage of or economizing on electricity and school materials. Thank you all for the goodwill shown so far; thank you in advance as well for the cooperation awaited in the future.

FR. DIONISIO M. MIRANDA, SVD MA STD
University President