The Commission on Education called for a review of the security policies of the University of the Philippines after a female student was sexually assaulted within the Diliman campus late Saturday evening.
“This despicable criminal act is a wake-up call for the University of the Philippines to review and rationalize its security and safety policies, including its operational engagement with the Philippine National Police and other law enforcement agencies in order to make the UP Community safe and secure,” CHED chairman Prospero de Vera III said.
In a statement, the UPD administration said it was working with the police to arrest the suspect and provide assistance to the victim.
It said more roving security personnel and university police officers will be deployed in different areas of the campus, especially after office hours.
De Vera said higher education institutions must remain safe spaces for students.
“I encourage anyone and everyone who has any information regarding the incident to report to the authorities to aid in the investigation. The University must spare nothing to ensure that justice is obtained for the victim and her family,” the CHED chairman said.
“I have asked the University Administration to extend all possible assistance to the student and her family at this time of great challenge. I share with the entire UP Community our full support for her and her family in overcoming this difficult traumatic hurdle in their lives,” added De Vera, who is also the chairperson of the UP Board of Regents.