CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Parents and students of Gusa Regional Science High School-X (GRSHS-X) continue to await the outcome of an ongoing investigation into a reported sexual harassment case, with school officials assuring the public that due process is being observed before any disciplinary action is taken.
The case drew widespread attention after allegations of sexual harassment involving students surfaced on social media, prompting the school administration to launch an investigation.
The incident also drew public attention from the Department of Education (DepEd), police, parents and student leaders, who have called for a fair and impartial resolution through the proper process.
The school earlier said the complaint is being handled under the Department of Education's learner protection guidelines, with statements from the parties involved already gathered, parents notified, and available evidence undergoing evaluation before any sanctions are imposed.
For students and parents, this means no final decision has yet been reached.
School officials stressed that disciplinary measures, including possible suspension or expulsion if warranted by the findings, can only be imposed after a thorough investigation and observance of due process.
The administration also appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified information on social media, saying rumors could further harm both the complainant and the respondent while the investigation remains ongoing.
The school also said it is committed to conducting a fair and impartial investigation while protecting the rights, welfare and privacy of both the complainant and the respondent in accordance with DepEd procedures.
The school's Supreme Secondary Learner Government (SSLG) likewise clarified that online claims suggesting students would automatically face sanctions merely for reacting to or commenting on social media posts about the issue are false.
It said the school's priority remains resolving the complaint through the proper process, while concerns involving online conduct, if any, would be addressed separately.
As the investigation continues, the case has drawn widespread concern from parents and readers, many of whom called for accountability while urging authorities to uncover the truth.
On Mindanao Gold Star Daily's Facebook page, one parent commented, "Imbestigahe ninyo kay luoy ang biktima," appealing for a thorough investigation.
Another reader, Franie Ratilla, wrote, "The Law and Justice shall prevail. Walay lipod-lipod para sa kaayohan sa tanan," expressing hope that justice would be be served fairly.
Jigs Lacbain Neri said the allegations should not be taken lightly, as he commented, "Dili na dapat ipagwalang-bahala kay serious kaayo na nga issue. Dapat mogawas gyud ang kamatuoran ug manubag ang dapat manubag."
Another reader urged school authorities to ensure that anyone found responsible after the investigation is held accountable in accordance with due process.
Matthew Probadora likewise stressed the need for accountability, saying, "Pwede ba nga mananahimik na lang ang mga parents sa mga naagrabyado? Siyempre, mananagot dapat ang may sala."
Despite the growing public concern, school officials reiterated that the investigation is still ongoing and urged students, parents and the public to allow the process to run its course.
They also reminded the community to respect the privacy of those involved and avoid speculation that could prejudice the outcome of the case.
As of Thursday, the school has not announced when the investigation will be completed, and no final disciplinary action or criminal charges have been publicly disclosed.
School officials said official updates will be released only after the investigation has been concluded in accordance with Department of Education procedures. (Ben Balce, Editorial Lead)
