BACOLOD City – The city government is urging other possible victims of sexual harassment involving a dismissed faculty member of the Bacolod City College (BCC) to come forward and file their complaints.
Mayor Greg Gasataya stressed that “abuse of authority has no place in public service. The city government urges any other individuals who may have been affected to come forward through the appropriate channels.”
He assured that the city will extend full protection and support to complainants.
The mayor’s statement came after the dismissal of a BCC instructor who was found guilty of sexual harassment following a complaint filed by a graduating student. The penalty includes perpetual disqualification from public service.
Gasataya approved the teacher’s dismissal on July 22 upon the recommendation of the BCC Board of Trustees, citing Section 51(A) of the 2017 Rules on Administrative Cases in the Civil Service as legal basis.
The city government strongly condemned all forms of sexual misconduct, particularly in academic institutions entrusted with the education and moral formation of the youth.
“Public service demands both competence and character. Where either is lacking, especially at the expense of the vulnerable, we will act without hesitation,” Gasataya said, emphasizing that due process and thorough investigation were observed.
Meanwhile, several former students took to social media to share their experiences. One comment read: “It’s been six years since we graduated, yet Sir still visits our homes and asks about us.”
Another netizen said: “Finally, someone was brave enough to speak up. My younger sister, then in third year, also experienced harassment. We stayed silent out of fear something might happen to her while still studying. Sir, I hope this time you change.”/PN
