"UB does not tolerate sexual violence" — University responds to sexual assault allegation against faculty member

BAGUIO CITY — The University of Baguio (UB) has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy against sexual violence after an anonymous social media post accused one of its faculty members of sexually assaulting a student. The university, however, clarified that it has not yet received a formal complaint regarding the allegation.

In an open letter posted on August 4 by an anonymous member of the "Arteks of Lakandula" Facebook group, the writer alleged being raped by a professor reportedly affiliated with the university's College of Education/School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts and involved in sports activities.

The anonymous writer also expressed disappointment over what was described as the university's "silence," claiming the alleged incident had previously been brought to the administration's attention but that no action was taken.

The post further alleged that other students had experienced harassment involving the same faculty member.

The post drew widespread reactions online, with many netizens expressing support for the anonymous writer and encouraging the alleged victim to pursue justice.

One commenter, who identified as a fellow survivor, wrote:

"To the author of this post, I hope this comment will reach you. I had been there... Please seek and fight for justice. You did not deserve that, and no man or woman deserves it."

Another commenter urged the public to avoid victim-blaming and expressed support for survivors seeking justice.

In response, the University of Baguio issued an official statement through its Facebook page, acknowledging the seriousness of the allegation while emphasizing that the institution does not tolerate sexual violence, harassment, abuse, or retaliation.

"We recognize the seriousness of this allegation and the courage it takes for any survivor to speak about sexual violence. We assure our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the public that any report of this nature will be treated with urgency and compassion. The University does not tolerate sexual violence, harassment, abuse, or retaliation," the university stated.

UB also clarified that no formal complaint or official report regarding the alleged incident has been received.

According to the university, the absence of a formal complaint has prevented it from initiating the appropriate fact-finding process and implementing protective measures under its existing policies.

As of this writing, the individual who made the allegation remains anonymous, and the faculty member referred to in the social media post has not been publicly identified. No criminal complaint has been announced by authorities in connection with the allegation.

The University said it remains committed to providing a safe learning environment and encouraged anyone with relevant information or concerns to report them through the institution's established channels so that appropriate action can be taken in accordance with due process.