UNIVERSITY of the Philippines President Angelo Jimenez has formed a task force to address student housing concerns across the UP system.

This came after freshman Alexis Mae Aquilino and her mother died when fire gutted their house at Barangay Krus Na Ligas in Quezon City on Feb. 9.

“The President vows to work with all Chancellors to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Concerning this, he has formed a Task Force to review and take immediate and long-term actions on student accommodations across the UP System,” UP said in a statement.

As the university prepares to return to face-to-face classes, UP stressed the importance of providing more living spaces in its campuses.

The university also said that accommodations on campus “provide peer-to-peer support and can direct students to support and well-being services when needed.”

“They also help foster a strong sense of community through a range of social events and cultural activities, as well as practical support,” UP added.