UP probes abuse, harassment allegations tied to UP Singing Ambassadors
By Jel Santos
The University of the Philippines (UP) on Monday, March 9, said it is looking into allegations of sexual abuse and harassment involving the UP Singing Ambassadors following a report published on March 6 by the Philippine Collegian, the official student publication of UP Diliman.
UP President Angelo Jimenez issued the statement after the report carried testimonies from former members of the choir who alleged incidents of sexual abuse and grooming involving a choral conductor.
“The University has processes in place to enable victims to pursue actions against offenders. We in the UP System leadership are looking into this particular matter in UP Diliman, and request that members of media and the public likewise protect the privacy of the parties allegedly involved, particularly the victims,” Jimenez said.
The UP president added that relevant offices have been directed to exhaust available remedies under the law and the university’s rules and provide support to victims.
“The relevant offices have also been instructed to exhaust all remedies under law and the UP Code, and to extend psycho-social support to any victims of sexual harassment and abuse,” he said.
In its report, the Philippine Collegian said several former members of the UP Singing Ambassadors have come forward with testimonies alleging abuse and manipulation that they said occurred during their time in the organization.
Jimenez reiterated that UP firmly stands against sexual harassment and abuse in any form.
“We view these matters with grave concern, and remind all concerned offices to ensure that human rights are protected and upheld,” he added.