Noting that the university did not comply with its previous directive ordering Ateneo to submit documents.
In a statement on Tuesday, June 23, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), signed by its Chairperson Dr. Shirley Agrupis, said that it has officially issued a Show Cause Order (SCO) to Ateneo de Manila University.
It is in connection with the tragic drowning of two student-athletes, Divine Adili and Rene Baterbonia, during a school-sanctioned team-building activity in Dipaculao, Aurora on June 8, 2026.
In accordance with applicable laws, policies, rules, and regulations, the SCO mandates the university to submit a written explanation under oath within ten (10) days from receipt of the Order.
According to CHED, the university must state why the Commission should not impose appropriate sanctions for alleged violations of various directives, such as 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 ADMU’s alleged failure to exercise reasonable supervision over its students in loco parentis.
The Commission noted that through its National Capital Region (NCR) Office, it previously directed Ateneo de Manila University the day after the incident, on Jume 9, to submit an incident report, a certificate of compliance with CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 63 (s. 2017), and the documents required under Article V of CMO No. 6 (s. 2026).
“Given the seriousness of the incident and the Commission’s responsibility to ascertain the facts and determine compliance with applicable regulations, CHED made repeated requests for the submission of these documents,” the agency added. “Despite follow-ups by CHED-NCR, the University failed to provide the required records and information.“
As a result of that, CHED issued an SCO on June 16, noting that “(it) cannot allow matters involving the loss of student lives and questions of institutional accountability to remain unaddressed.“
The Commission also emphasized, “Higher education institutions are expected to cooperate fully with regulatory processes, particularly in incidents involving student safety and welfare.“
Meanwhile, the Commission also urges the public to rely only on official statements and verified information while the proper administrative processes are underway.