CHEd issues show cause order vs Ateneo

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) on Tuesday said it has issued a show cause order (SCO) against Ateneo de Manila University for failing to submit documents requested as part of its investigation into the deaths of two of its student-athletes in Aurora province.

In a statement, CHEd said it had directed Ateneo as early as June 9 to submit documents needed to establish the facts and assess compliance with relevant regulations following the drowning of two student-athletes during a school-sanctioned team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.

These requested documents included an incident report, a certificate of compliance with CHEd Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 63 (s. 2017), as well as documents required under Article V of CMO No. 6 (s. 2026)

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READ: CHEd’s probe to ‘pursue the truth’ on Ateneo student-athletes’ deaths

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“Despite follow-ups by CHED-NCR, the University failed to provide the required records and information,” CHEd said.

“As a result, and in the exercise of its regulatory authority, the Commission issued an SCO on June 16,” it added.

READ: NBI intends to finish probe on Ateneo athletes’ deaths this week

Under the order, CHEd directed Ateneo to submit a written explanation under oath within ten 10 days from receipt of the SCO stating why the Commission should not impose appropriate sanctions for alleged violations of the following:

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CMO No. 63 (s. 2017), on the conduct of off-campus activities;

CMO No. 6 (s. 2026), in relation to Republic Act No. 11053 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR); and

Alleged failure to exercise reasonable supervision over its students in loco parentis.

CHEd then reminded Ateneo that higher education institutions are “expected to cooperate fully with regulatory processes, particularly in incidents involving student safety and welfare.”

It then assured the public that the commission remains committed to protecting student welfare and upholding standards across the higher education sector.

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“Institutions entrusted with the care of students must comply with all laws, regulations, and safety requirements, especially in the conduct of off-campus activities,” said CHEd. /cb

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