BU resumes classes after smoke incident

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- Bicol University (BU) will resume classes and sports activities for its 2025 Olympics on Thursday, following a two-day suspension due to an incident that sent several students to the hospital.

Under Memorandum Order No. 392, athletes who are unwell or still recovering will not be compelled to participate in the games.

On Monday evening, students suffered suffocation and hyperventilation from the smoke coming from canisters used in gender reveal events, as part of the BU Hataw performance, a mass demonstration routine conducted in the BU Olympics yearly.

The university will deep-clean and prepare the sports complex grounds to ensure safety, cleanliness, and readiness before the continuation of the University Olympics.

The suspension of classes was implemented to provide students with debriefing, medical assessments, and assistance for those still experiencing symptoms.

It also allowed for the recovery of students recently discharged from hospital confinement and for the distribution of aid to affected students.

In a separate statement, the BU administration assured the public and students, particularly those affected by the recent color smoke incident during the BU Hataw presentation, that it is taking actions to address the situation. A task force has been established to assess the incident.

Immediate and necessary medical, financial, and psychosocial assistance have been provided and are being extended to all affected students and personnel. (PNA)

Bicol University main campus in Legazpi City (PNA photo by Connie Calipay)