THE UNIVERSITY of the Philippines has declared OCTA Research Group a legitimate source of information because it conducts studies and surveys.

“UP is a large community of scholars, researchers, and experts in multiple fields. By and large, members of the UP community are free and encouraged to conduct research and harness their expertise in the service of the Filipino people in any way they deem appropriate,” it said in a statement.

The statement of support was issued after five lawmakers in the House of Representatives sought an inquiry in aid of legislation into the capabilities and background of the group.

The lawmakers encouraged the House Committee on Good Government to investigate the OCTA Research group’s “qualifications, research methodology, collaborations, and composition.”

UP pointed that there is a difference between the endeavors of individual UP researchers and the projects and programs of official UP academic and research units, with the latter bearing the University’s name, symbol, and approval.

“Initiatives involving particular UP faculty and research staff members, such as the OCTA Research Team’s polling, research, and consultation activities, have no connection to UP and are not sponsored, endorsed, or organized by the University,” it added.