The Board of Trustees of Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) has extended the term of University President Fr. Roberto “Bobby” C. Yap through May 31, 2027, as the institution implements reforms and prepares for a leadership change.
In a statement released Tuesday, August 5, Board Chairperson Bernadine T. Siy confirmed that the extension was finalized during an August 1 meeting. The decision aims to maintain institutional stability and continuity throughout Academic Year 2026-2027 while the university navigates an orderly transition.
According to the board, extending Yap’s term will allow Ateneo time to resolve ongoing issues related to a tragic June 8 incident, launch necessary reforms, and refine its succession strategy to ensure seamless leadership turnovers in the future.
The move follows the June 8 drowning of student-athletes Divine Adili and Rene Baterbonia during a team activity, an event that led Ateneo to review both the incident and its administrative response. The board noted that its investigation into the matter is complete and that its findings will be published shortly.
As Yap prepares for the end of his extended term, a dedicated Search Committee will be established to select the university’s next president, with further details regarding its composition and timeline to be announced later.
“This decision was reached after prayerful discernment, careful consideration, and having listened to voices from across the University community,” the board said.
The trustees acknowledged Yap’s six-year tenure, praising his guidance through the COVID-19 pandemic, the formulation of the AMDG 2030 strategic plan, the integration of coeducation and higher education units, the launch of the Gokongwei Brothers School of Education and Learning Design, and key fundraising efforts, including support for a future Cavite campus.
The board also commended Yap’s accountability regarding the recent tragedy.
“The Board also recognizes Fr. Bobby’s readiness to accept leadership responsibility for recent events and the University’s response to them. We appreciate his willingness, in the true Jesuit spirit of mission, to accept reassignment and a new ministry should this best serve the University and the Society of Jesus,” the statement read.
Addressing the broader university community, the board expressed empathy for the emotional hardship felt across campus in recent months.
“The Board recognizes the pain and difficulty of recent months. In its discernment, it has sought to ensure accountability and continuity, renewal and care for persons, guided by Ateneo’s Jesuit mission and by the concerns, hopes, and aspirations expressed by members of the community,” it said.
The trustees reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining active governance and administrative oversight throughout the upcoming transition period.