Bicol University (BU) suspended all classes and sports activities to allow students to rest and recover following an incident where several participants fainted after inhaling smoke from colored smoke bombs during the opening of the university’s sports festival.

In a memorandum, the BU administration said the suspension was intended to give time for recovery and provide assistance to those affected by the smoke exposure during the 2025 BU Hataw event held on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the university grounds in Legazpi City.

“The University Administration assures the BU community that all necessary support and assistance will be extended to every student affected by the incident, prioritizing their health, safety, and well-being,” the memorandum stated.

Several students reportedly fainted and had difficulty breathing after inhaling smoke from colored bombs used as props during the opening performance. They were immediately assisted by authorities and brought to nearby hospitals.

In its official statement, BU said it has formed a Taskforce–Technical Working Group (TWG) to assess the incident and recommend actions to ensure accountability and transparency.

The university added that medical, financial, and psychosocial assistance are being extended to the affected students, with the University Health Service (UHS) closely monitoring those confined and those treated as outpatients.

BU also said it is coordinating with the City and Regional Health Offices, DSWD, BFP, and PNP to ensure proper health and safety protocols are followed.

Meanwhile, BU announced that classes will resume on Thursday, October 23, while the BU Olympics will continue from October 23 to 25, after the BUPGA Sports Complex undergoes cleaning and preparation on Wednesday, October 22.

The university reminded coaches and tournament managers to prioritize the safety and well-being of all student-athletes, noting that those still recovering will not be required to participate in the games.