A COALITION of Ateneo de Manila University students and alumni urged the school’s administration to clarify whether a professor accused of sexual harassment was held accountable for his actions.

Time’s Up Ateneo said that details of the departure of the Philosophy professor is vague because of the secrecy surrounding cases of sexual harassment.

“Time’s Up Ateneo welcomes the news of Dr. Jade Principe’s long-overdue departure from the Ateneo de Manila University. On this occasion, we reaffirm our full solidarity with the survivors, for whom this development is part of a long journey toward healing and justice,” the coalition said.

“However, the circumstances of Dr. Principe’s departure remain vague. We urge the University to clarify whether Dr. Principe was ever held accountable for his actions,” it added.

University Gender and Development Focal Point Committee Chair Maria Elissa Lao confirmed that Professor Jesus Deogracias Principe was dismissed in November 2020.

“We wish to inform you that Dr. Principe is no longer connected with the University,” Lao said.

According to the Guidon, the school’s publication, it was not clear if the professor voluntarily separated from Ateneo or was terminated.

In 2016, several students filed complaints against Principe for allegedly inviting them for individual consultations in his bedroom and sending inappropriate messages.

Patricia Escalante and Julia, both former students of Principe, were among those who filed formal complaints against the professor.

Julia said that other students also came forward with stories about Principe’s inappropriate behavior.

Time’s Up Ateneo urged the school “to continue taking steps to ensure a safe space on campus, to make amends to survivors who have suffered as a result of flawed and protracted processes, and to fully rectify past wrongs.”

“This means that sexual aggressors should not only be dealt with individually. Those who have contributed to, exacerbated or downplayed abuse — from the Departments and lower units all the way up to the highest offices — should be held accountable,” it said.

“As part of its obligations under the law, Ateneo should also proactively combat retaliation against survivors and their supporters. Time’s Up Ateneo will continue to work with survivors and with the community to end sexual violence in the University, in other schools, and everywhere else. The time for justice and healing is now,” it said.