The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) reaffirmed Tuesday that students have the right to join protests, stressing they must not be “silenced, threatened, or intimidated” for speaking against corruption.
CHED directed schools to safeguard students from harassment, respond quickly to threats, and clarified that it has not ordered anyone to attend rallies, saying participation is a personal choice.
The statement came after massive September 21 demonstrations against corruption in flood control projects, where tens of thousands joined nationwide protests.
The rallies turned tense as Manila police arrested over 200 people, including minors, with videos showing violent dispersals condemned by rights groups.
CHED said its stance aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s support for citizens demanding accountability and good governance.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 24, 2025
