CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Lawyer Atty. Ralph Angelo B. Metrillo, representing the Concerned XU Parents, Teachers, Alumni and Communities, Inc. (COPTAC), has confirmed that he has received an official copy of the memorandum from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) National Office, directing the regional office in Region X to submit an update on the investigation involving Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan.
The directive, dated June 1, 2026 and signed by DENR Assistant Secretary Norlito A. Eneran, Chairperson of the Anti-Illegal Land Titling Committee, formally calls on local authorities to provide the status of the probe regarding allegations of possible violations of Section 70 of the Public Land Act relative to the university’s Manresa Campus property.
Atty. Metrillo stated that receiving this document is a significant step forward in their efforts to seek clarity and proper resolution of the issue, which his group first brought to the attention of the DENR Region X office as early as December 2024, followed by another communication in March 2026.
“We are pleased to acknowledge that we have now in our possession the official communication from the DENR Central Office addressed to the Regional Executive Director,” Atty. Metrillo said in a formal statement. “This serves as confirmation that the matters we raised in our position paper have been duly noted and are being taken into consideration by the national leadership of the department.”
According to Atty. Metrillo, the memorandum instructs the regional office to review the records and report back on what actions have been undertaken so far. He views this as a necessary measure to ensure that the process moves forward in accordance with standard procedures.
“Our objective has always been to ensure that all matters related to public lands are examined strictly in accordance with existing laws and regulations,” he explained. “We brought this forward because we believe there are legal questions that require official clarification and determination. This directive now provides the framework for the regional office to conduct a thorough and systematic review of the case.”
Atty. Metrillo emphasized that their group’s advocacy is grounded in the principle of equal application of the law, without prejudice to the reputation or standing of the institution involved.
“We recognize the contributions of Xavier University to the community and the education sector. However, it is equally important that questions regarding land restrictions and compliance with the Public Land Act are strictly addressed”, he noted. “This is not about targeting any institution, but about ensuring that the rule of law prevails, regardless of the personalities and institutions involved.”
The DENR has clarified that the issuance of the memorandum is part of regular administrative oversight and does not constitute a judgment of liability against the university. It is intended solely to determine if sufficient basis exists for further legal action, including the possible filing of a reversion case, should the facts warrant it.
With the order now officially transmitted, Atty. Metrillo expressed hope that DENR Region X will act promptly to submit its findings, allowing all concerned parties—parents, alumni, and the public—to be properly informed of the results.
“We trust that the regional office will perform its mandate objectively and efficiently,” Atty. Metrillo stated. “We will continue to monitor the proceedings and stand ready to cooperate in any way that will assist the department in arriving at a fair and legal resolution of this matter.”
