Prospects for peace among the fraternities in the University of the Philippines in the Visayas, Miag-ao Campus

Abstract

Peace is not just the absence of war but it also has to be the presence of harmony between the elements. Aside from the fact that there have been isolated cases of inter-fraternity trouble, there does not exist any system that promotes peaceful coexistence to hinder any future conflict. Unknown to many, the experiences of nations is a comprehensive basis that could be an effective perspective in understanding the dynamics of Inter-Fraternity Relations and in formulating objective resolutions to the problems. The study was directed by three Objectives. First, it sought to identify the areas and factors that have, or have the potential to, cause tension in the relations of the fraternities. Secondly, the study sought to identify the factors that have, or have the potential to, promote peace in the relations of the fraternities. Third and last, the study looked into the question of what International Relations (I.R.) concepts may be applied to the interactions of the fraternities to lessen or prevent tension. Two Research Instruments were used in the collection of data. Key Informant Interviews (KII) and the Survey Questionnaires. In line with the research sub-problems, the results of the data-collection may be categorized into three main groupings. First, as with regards to the causes of tension in inter-fraternity relations, is that factors in the individual/pcrsonal level, factors in the level of the individual fraternities, and factors in the dynamics of the entire fraternity community all have the tendency to be sources of tension in inter-fraternity relations. Secondly, as for the factors that lessen or prevent tension in inter fraternity relations, data of the research shows that interactions of the members of the different fraternities in the dormitories or in other organizations and the role of the School Administration are the most prominent factors that lessen or prevent tension in inter-fraternity relations. As for the Causes of conflict, the analysis of the results show that there are still many aspects in Inter-Fraternity Relations that need to be carefully assessed and addressed. As for the Factors that Promote Peace, an analysis of the results from both methods show that the respondents believed that factors that involve greater interaction among the fraternities and the role of the School Administration were significant factors that will promote peace. Lastly, the analysis of the perception of the respondents on the use of IR concepts showed that an overwhelming majority of the respondents believed that maintaining positive relationship is an essential component of a harmonious fraternity community; that the Idealist practices of addressing the root of the problem before escalation and concept of Inter-fraternity council could lessen or prevent tension in Inter-Fraternity Relations; and that the Realist practices of the alliances between fraternities and deterrence will not be helpful in promoting peace but, rather, will only be sources of tension among the fraternities. In light of the results of this study, the following actions or policy Recommendations are suggested. First is that the School Administration should be firm with the implementation of University regulations with regards to Inter-Fraternity conflicts. Second, concerned Offices should initiate policies to promote interaction among fraternities. Third, fraternities themselves should enhance positive diplomatic relations. Fourth, there should be firm leadership within the fraternities so as to direct it to its true objective. Lastly, a legitimate Inter-Fraternity organization should be established. As for the recommendations for further study, one is that (the results should be verified by a study with a greater number of respondents and, secondly, records of the University and the Miag-ao Police Precinct regarding Inter-Fraternity conflicts should be studied.