Pinoyliga Cup Joins CHED Push to Strengthen Student-Athlete Protection Across Collegiate Sports

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) gathered representatives from universities, athletic associations, leagues, and sporting event organizations on September 21, 2026, for a hybrid orientation on its student-athlete protection policies and guidelines at the CHED Central Office Auditorium.

The orientation focused on CHED Memorandum Order No. 13, Series of 2026, which sets guidelines to protect student-athletes while supporting their academic, athletic, health, and overall development. 

Distinguished guests included Dr. Lorenzo Lorenzo of EAC, Fr. Vic Calvo Jr. of Letran, Dr. Rustico Camangian of NU, Mr. Jeffrey Herboso of AUF, and Dr. Rino Datuin of the CHED-NCR Office.

Also present were Rita Sescor, Chief Education Program Specialist from the Office of Student Development and Services; Atty. Ruel Capanzana of the Legal and Legislative Service; and Technical Working Member Dr. Jesus Co.

Among the league representatives in attendance was Pinoyliga Cup Tournament Director Benny Benitez, who took part in the open-floor discussion and shared a suggestion with the Commission on expanding opportunities for student-athletes beyond their respective mother leagues.

Benny Benitez emphasized the importance of nurturing leagues outside the established mother leagues, noting that developing these platforms could provide student-athletes with more avenues to compete, gain experience, and continue their athletic development.

The discussion also allowed participants to raise questions, seek clarification, and offer suggestions on the practical implementation of the memorandum across different collegiate sports settings.

The guidelines cover key areas of student-athlete welfare, including academic support, health and safety, benefits, eligibility, and mechanisms for addressing complaints and violations. They also emphasize the responsibility of institutions and sports organizations to ensure that athletic participation does not compromise students’ education and welfare.