{Shane Banzon,contributor)DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Student leaders across the University of the Philippines (UP) system are pushing for a higher budget for the country’s premier state university as Congress prepares for upcoming budget deliberations. “As we clamor for a higher budget, it must also address basic student services and the needs of students.” Romulo also urged student councils to strengthen data-driven advocacy to support their calls for increased funding. “I hope to see more capacitated student councils that collect data scientifically about their situations,” she said. Outgoing Student Regent Dexter Clemente said he expects the resolutions adopted at GASC61 to shape student campaigns in the coming months.