Photo credit: UP

The University of the Philippines has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of students Alyssa Alano and Maureen Santuyo, who were among those killed during a military operation last week in Toboso, Negros Occidental.

In its statement, UP said it is already helping bring the remains of the two students home so their families and communities can mourn them with dignity.

The university also backed a call for an independent probe, voicing support for the Commission on Human Rights to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into what exactly happened during the incident. It urged all concerned government agencies to cooperate fully in the interest of justice.

Amid public speculation, UP appealed for restraint, asking people not to rush to judgment about why the students were in the area. It emphasized that learning goes beyond the classroom and that students often engage directly with communities.

While initial reports suggest the two were involved in community-based activities linked to their organizations—not official university programs—UP stressed that students have the right to peacefully and lawfully exercise their freedoms, especially in ways that deepen social awareness.

The university closed its statement by reaffirming its role as a space for critical thinking, conscience, and courage, even in the face of tragedy.