Photo from Rappler

by Kiera De Guzman

The Commission of Higher Education (CHED) has issued a Show Cause Order (SCO) to Ateneo de Manila University over its alleged failure to submit documents related to the deaths of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili during a team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora.

In a statement released on June 23, CHED said it had directed the University on June 9 to submit an incident report, a certificate of compliance with CHED Memorandum Order No. 63, series of 2017, and other documents required under Article V of CHED Memorandum Order No. 6, series of 2026.

According to CHED, Ateneo failed to provide the requested records and information despite repeated requests and follow-ups from the Commission’s National Capital Region office.

The Show Cause Order, issued on June 16, requires Ateneo to submit a written explanation under oath within 10 days from receipt of the order. 

“In the exercise of its regulatory authority, the Commission issued an SCO on June 16… CHED cannot allow matters involving the loss of student lives and questions of institutional accountability to remain unaddressed,” it said.

The University must explain why sanctions should not be imposed for alleged violations involving the conduct of off-campus activities and provisions under Republic Act No. 11053 and its implementing rules and regulations.

It must also explain its alleged failure to exercise reasonable supervision over its students.

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

As of writing, Ateneo de Manila University has yet to issue a public statement regarding the Show Cause Order.