SWU-Phinma Initiates Safety Response Amid Harassment Reports from Viral Social Media Dispute
Southwestern University (SWU)-Phinma has launched a coordinated safety response and internal investigation following reports that its students have faced physical and online harassment triggered by a viral social media dispute. The university's spokesperson and Dean of the School of Governance and Public Service, Chase Castaño, confirmed on Thursday, March 26, 2026, that the institution is implementing a strict safety-first approach involving student affairs, campus security, and local barangay authorities.
University Commitment to Safety and Accountability
The University remains committed to maintaining a safe space, with all actions grounded in accountability and due process, Castaño told SunStar Cebu. Any disciplinary or legal measures will be determined based on verified facts, in accordance with University policies and applicable laws. This response comes as the university addresses escalating tensions that have moved beyond online platforms.
Origins of the Viral Dispute
The tension surfaced after a prominent content creator—a vocal supporter of former President Rodrigo Duterte—publicly called out an SWU-Phinma nursing student. The student reportedly posted a Facebook status suggesting the online personality should develop cancer. This post sparked widespread online criticism, which has now extended beyond social media and reportedly affected the broader SWU student body, even those unconnected to the original dispute.
Reports of Harassment and Safety Measures
While the university continues to monitor the situation, reports from netizens and students paint a troubling picture of the current environment. Alleged incidents include individuals in SWU uniforms being subjected to verbal abuse and being spat on, students being forcibly removed from public utility vehicles, and a surge in cyber-harassment directed at students associated with the university.
In response, SWU-Phinma has tightened its routine security protocols. Students are now strictly required to wear their identification cards on campus, and the university is coordinating with barangay officials to ensure safety in the immediate vicinity. We are aware of the reports circulating online regarding alleged incidents affecting members of the University community, which are being monitored and verified through appropriate channels, Castaño said.
The university's proactive stance aims to mitigate risks and uphold a secure learning environment, emphasizing that all actions will be based on verified information and legal frameworks.
