FOLLOWING A bomb threat that prompted a campus evacuation on Oct. 23, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) committed to pursue a thorough probe into the incident and to review its security protocols.
UST Secretary General Fr. Louie Coronel said efforts are underway to identify those behind the threat, which disrupted campus operations last Friday and forced a shift to online mode of instruction the following day.
“Declaring the campus safe does not mean that our responsibility ends, nor does it diminish the seriousness with which we regard this incident. Rest assured that the University is not letting its guard down and will pursue this investigation vigorously,” Coronel told The Flame.
Coronel declined to disclose potential leads to avoid compromising the investigation but assured Thomasians that the University is committed to holding those responsible accountable.
While regular security procedures remain in place, Coronel said further improvements would be considered based on the ongoing institutional review.
“Following the incident, the University has initiated a review of its existing security and emergency response protocols, with particular attention to preventive measures, coordination, and communication procedures,” he said.
On Oct. 23, UST students, faculty members and employees were asked to leave the campus after bomb threats were discovered by a student in a restroom inside the Medicine Building.
READ: Bomb threats in Medicine Building force UST to evacuate students, personnel
At 8:54 p.m. that same day, the Philippine National Police declared the campus safe for occupancy after a thorough explosive ordnance disposal paneling that found no explosives inside the University’s facilities.
Coronel urged the Thomasian community to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities and exercise prudence by relying on verified announcements. He also appealed to those with information regarding the threat to come forward so that proper measures can be taken.
“Each of us has a role in fostering a campus environment where safety, mutual respect, and concern for others are part of our everyday life,” Coronel said.
“We believe that accountability must be pursued with diligence, fairness, and due regard for the proper investigative process,” he added. F—with reports from Rovy Jilyn Fraginal
