UST ‘still finalizing’ probe on alleged training bubble, says PSC

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), the lead agency under the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging Infectious Diseases’ tripartite body for sports looking into University of Santo Tomas’ alleged training in Sorsogon, said the school has yet to conclude its internal probe.

“UST is still finalizing their investigation today,” PSC’s representative, national training director Marc Velasco told the Inquirer in a brief exchange just minutes after the virtual meeting.

The university is also expected to submit its findings to the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) on Wednesday, according to Games and Amusements Board chair Baham Mitra.

The UAAP, represented by its executive director Rebo Saguisag and president Nonong Calanog, will then report to the Joint Administrative Order-group 4 p.m. next Tuesday.

Also joining the meeting was the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), which was represented by no less than its chair Dr. Prospero de Vera III, and Atty. Cindy Jaro.

CHED is set to reiterate a stay-at-home order for students, the Inquirer has also learned.

Velasco said the PSC has also recommended for the UAAP to take a look into National University’s case over alleged breach of quarantine protocols, which reports said, happened as early as March.

An official statement is expected to be released by the PSC this afternoon.

Earlier this morning, UST’s athletic director, Fr. Jannel Abogado, stepped down from his post. He was replaced by Fr. Ermito de Sagon, who previously served as the Institute of Physical Education and Athletics’ chief for 16 years.