CHED probes Cebu Normal University over 'unapproved' shift to fully online classes
CNU president's memo lacked board approval, consultation
CHED
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has ordered an investigation into Cebu Normal University (CNU) – Main Campus following the unauthorized issuance of a memorandum circular that abruptly shifted all classes to a 100% online learning modality without consultation or Board of Regents (BOR) approval.
In a statement released on August 4, CHED Chairperson Shirley C. Agrupis said the commission was made aware of CNU President Daniel A. Ariaso Sr.’s issuance of Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 43, s. 2025, on July 21, which mandated the sudden shift to fully online classes.
CHED said the move allegedly bypassed the required consultations with faculty and students and was not approved by the university's BOR.
On August 2, CHED said Ariaso issued MC No. 45, s. 2025, revoking the earlier directive and reinstating MC No. 12, s. 2025, which had been approved by the BOR in February.
MC 12 outlines a hybrid learning modality of 75% on-site and 25% online for both the Main Campus and Balamban Campus, effective from February 22 to December 31, 2025.
However, CHED noted that the newly issued MC No. 45 included “new provisions” that were not reviewed or approved by the CNU BOR, raising further concerns about procedural compliance.
To ensure adherence to CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 4, Series of 2023—which provides updated guidelines on on-site learning in higher education institutions—CHED has directed its Regional Office VII to monitor and investigate the university’s actions.
Agrupis said CHED has tasked the CHED Regional Office (CHEDRO) VII to “monitor, investigate, and evaluate,” and to submit a report “on whether CNU has committed any violation of the requirements as provided in the subject CMO on on-site learning.” A full report is expected by August 9, 2025.