CHED backs students’ right to protest corruption, warns vs disinformation

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on Tuesday declared its firm support for students’ right to protest against corruption, while also cautioning the youth to remain vigilant against disinformation.

In an official statement, CHED said students must “never be silenced, threatened, or intimidated for standing up against corruption,” stressing that their voices are essential in demanding accountability and good governance.

“CHED affirms that the youth have every right to demand accountability and good governance, especially in the face of the serious corruption issues confronting the nation today,” the agency said.

The commission emphasized that the right to protest is protected, provided it is exercised within the bounds of the law. It denounced all forms of corruption and recognized the indignation that drives citizens, particularly the youth, to speak out.

Furthermore, CHED rejected claims that it had directed students to attend rallies, clarifying that participation in protests is a matter of personal choice. It underscored its trust in students’ “discernment as critical thinkers shaped by higher education.”

“Contrary to false claims, CHED has not directed students to attend rallies; participation is their personal choice, and we trust in their discernment,” the commission said.

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) were urged to protect their students from threats and to extend support to those who may be targeted.

CHED also left matters of monitoring protests to the police and military, saying it trusted security forces to maintain peace and order, provided that students’ rights are respected.

“CHED stands firmly with President Marcos, the Filipino youth, and the higher education community in the fight against corruption. The voices of our students must not only be heard but also defended, for they are vital to building a just, transparent, and corruption-free Philippines,” the statement added.  —Sherylin Untalan/RF, GMA Integrated News