In line with the 2026 Sanggunian Special Elections, the undergraduate student body is called to participate in a referendum regarding the proposed tuition and fee adjustments for Academic Year 2026–2027. This exercise serves as the official democratic channel for students to express their position on the university’s financial plans.
What is the TOFI Referendum?
The TOFI Referendum is a formal process initiated by the Sanggunian to consolidate an official expression of the student body's sentiment regarding the administration's proposal to increase costs. While the results serve as a measure of student perspective and are not legally binding under the 2026 Revised Electoral Code, they provide the Sanggunian with a vital mandate to represent student interests in university-wide negotiations.
For A.Y. 2026–2027, the University administration has proposed the following adjustments:
6% Increase in Tuition: Raising the per-unit rate from ₱5,534.55 to ₱5,866.60.
4% Increase in Other Fees: Specifically affecting library and laboratory fees.
The administration cites rising operational costs, including employee wage adjustments (70% allocation) and institutional improvements
Why Your Vote Matters
Your participation ensures that the student body's voice is documented and recognized. The Sanggunian has highlighted several critical areas of concern based on the University's 2024 SEC-filed financial statements, including:
Financial Capacity - The university reported a total excess of revenues over expenses of ₱1,013,000,060 for 2024.
Significant Resources - The school maintains ₱1.7 billion in cash and cash equivalents and ₱15.7 billion in total fund balances.
Student Welfare: - Recent pulsing efforts indicate that students are experiencing increased financial strain, mental distress, and a perceived lack of transparency regarding where tuition goes.
By voting, you help determine if the student body believes these increases are sufficiently justified or if they pose an undue burden on educational continuity and household welfare.
Who can vote: All bona fide undergraduate students of the Ateneo Higher Education Cluster.
When to vote: From April 27 to April 29, 2026.
Where to vote: Through the official online voting form concurrently with the Special Elections.
For a detailed breakdown of the university’s financial standing and the arguments regarding the increase, please review the Official TOFI Briefer.
BRIEFER ON THE PROPOSED 6% TUITION AND OTHER FEES INCREASE (TOFI)
Proposed 6% Tuition and Other Fees Increase (TOFI) Briefing Document.pdfWho can participate in the Referendum?
All undergraduate students of the Ateneo de Manila University have the right to participate in a Referendum.
Will this be a separate ballot?
Though a referendum is a separate electoral exercise, it shall be included in the same ballot for efficiency and clarity.
Will there be an abstain option?
There will be no abstain option as there is no valid electoral outcome should abstain garner the most number of votes.
