UST expected to submit findings on alleged training bubble to UAAP Thursday


CHED joins JAO probe on UST controversy
Aldin Ayo
UST reportedly concludes internal investigations on alleged training bubble in Sorsogan conducted by the men's basketball team. The university is expected to submit findings to UAAP Thursday. (UAAP)

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is now part of the group probing the controversy involving the reported breach of health protocols of the University of Santo Tomas men’s basketball team.

CHED Chairman Prospero De Vera III and Executive Directory Atty Cindy Jaro joined Wednesday’s meeting between the Joint Administrative Order Group and UAAP officials as they try to dig deeper into the issue involving collegiate athletes practicing in Sorsogon amid restrictions.

UST is reportedly wrapping up its internal investigation on the alleged unauthorized training bubble and is expected to submit its findings to the UAAP Thursday.

READ: UST vows appropriate action, further probe on men’s basketball team training bubble

The UAAP will then submit these reports to the JAO Group and CHED in their next meeting on Sept. 1.

Games and Amusements Board (GAB) chairman Baham Mitra also said “CHED will issue a reiteration for students to keep safe and stay at home.”

“They are now part of the group that will meet regularly,” he said.

Also present in the meeting were Philippine Sports Commission National Training Director Marc Velasco, Department of Health's Section Head of Policy and Technology Rodley Carza, UAAP Executive Director Rebo Saguisag and UAAP Season 83 President Nonong Calanog of La Salle.

READ: UST Tigers coach Aldin Ayo breaks silence on CJ Cansino’s exit, training bubble

The same probe group also asked UAAP to also investigate allegations involving National University women’s volleyball team also training amid restrictions after photos went viral.

READ: UST in hot water as CJ Cansino bares alleged group chat discussing Sorsogon ‘bubble’ life

The meeting was held a few hours after Fr Jannel Abogado OP resigned from his post as UST athletic director.

Sources confirmed this development Wednesday morning.

Abogado, who has been UST-Institute of Physical Education and Athletics (IPEA) director since 2017, filed his resignation on Tuesday and was accepted by the school administration.

Fr Ermito De Sagon OP, who happens to be Abogado’s predecessor, is set to take over the reins but the school has yet to make it official.

READ: CJ Cansino dismisses claims on ‘fast’ UP recruitment, circulating talks about bubble life in Sorsogon