The Adamson University administration guaranteed that the University would still be a safe place following the death of third-year BS chemistry student John Matthew Salilig.
“The Adamson University has always been a familiar space for all of its students, teachers, personnel, alumni, friends, and visitors. This is your safe place… We will ensure that it remains that way,” the University’s statement, released on February 28, read.
Meanwhile, the University expressed its sympathy to the victim's bereaved loved ones.
“We are one with his family and friends in grieving this unexpected and unfortunate loss,” it said.
The administration said it had already executed its investigation and cooperated with the authorities regarding the incident.
It also asked the community to be more careful and aware at all times of their affairs.
“The management encourages all Adamsonians to be mindful and vigilant of their activities whether inside or outside the campus,” the statement read.
As the case continues, the University encouraged the community to avoid spreading false information.
“We strongly urge the community to refrain from spreading unverified information and help us pray for student’s bereft family during this difficult time,” said in a Facebook post.
To show solidarity of mourning, the Adamson University Student Government (AUSG) encouraged the community to wear black and bring a candle for a candlelight vigil held at the SV Grounds on March 1.
Furthermore, the University and AUSG offered Masses of the dead for Salilig at ST chapel and Quadrangle on March 1-2.
In a GMA news report, University President Fr. Marcelo Manimtim, CM, discussed the sanction for the students involved in the incident.
“The persons who are directly involved in the death of John Matthew will be expelled from university, but we have to do our own investigation to a certain extent of responsibility,” Fr. Manimtim said.
Last Feb. 18, the AUSG announced the disappearance of Salilig and called for help about his whereabouts in a Facebook post.
Update with the case
According to a recent CNN news report, there are 17 persons of interest, while two material witnesses were charged due to obstruction of justice on March 1.
Moreover, a The Manila Times article stated that the primary suspect-turned-witness was identified as AdU student, Tung Cheng Teng Benitez, 21, from Las Piñas City.
Jeoeffrey Salilig, the father of the victim, together with his family, are seeking justice for their son and are determined to pursue a legal case against the suspects.