The article recounts two major incidents involving student fatalities during field trips: the 2014 drowning of seven Bulacan State University students and the 2017 bus accident that killed fifteen Bestlink College students. These incidents led to investigations and disciplinary actions against school officials.
Following the 2017 tragedy, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines implemented a moratorium on field trips and subsequently issued Memorandum Order 63 (CMO 63) in 2017. This order established more stringent guidelines and requirements for colleges and universities regarding the planning, execution, and reporting of field trips and educational tours. CMO 63 remains in effect.
The article also mentions a recent incident involving Bestlink College students who reported safety and logistical problems during a trip, resulting in a show-cause order from CHED.