"Bestlink College Denies Viral Field Trip Claims, Calls Them ‘Fabricated’"

Bestlink College of the Philippines has refuted allegations that students were forced to walk for hours during a field trip in Hermosa, Bataan, dismissing the viral claims as "fabricated."

In an official statement, the Quezon City-based institution asserted that the details circulating online were false and misleading, aimed at tarnishing the school's reputation. The college stated that it is open to an independent investigation by the local government of Hermosa, Bataan, to determine what really transpired.

School Responds to Allegations

Bestlink College addressed the concerns of students, parents, and the public, reiterating its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students during school events. While denying the allegations, the school acknowledged the distress caused by the incident and apologized for any inconvenience experienced by the students, their families, and the residents of Punta Belle, Hermosa.

“The well-being of our students has always been our priority before, during, and after school activities,” the statement read. “We deeply sympathize with those affected and are committed to addressing concerns responsibly.”

What Happened on the Field Trip?

According to student reports, the incident occurred on January 26, when chartered buses carrying Bestlink College students broke down, leaving them stranded. As a result, students claimed they had to walk for nearly four hours along a highway, reportedly enduring hunger, thirst, and exhaustion.

Some students compared their ordeal to the Bataan Death March, referencing the infamous forced march of World War II, during which thousands of Filipino and American prisoners of war suffered under Japanese forces.

These claims quickly spread on social media, sparking outrage and prompting calls for accountability from the school and trip organizers.

A History of Field Trip Controversies

This latest controversy is not the first time Bestlink College has faced scrutiny over field trips. In 2017, the school was involved in a tragic bus accident in Tanay, Rizal, which resulted in the deaths of 15 people, including 13 students. The fatal crash raised serious concerns about the safety protocols and oversight of school-organized trips.

With the Hermosa, Bataan incident now under scrutiny, many are urging the school to review its field trip policies to prevent similar situations in the future.

Calls for an Investigation

As public concern grows, the local government of Hermosa, Bataan, has been urged to conduct a thorough investigation to verify the students' accounts and determine any possible lapses in the school's planning and execution of the trip.

Meanwhile, Bestlink College maintains that the allegations are baseless, emphasizing its willingness to cooperate with authorities and clarify any misconceptions about the event.

With students and parents demanding greater accountability, the pressure is on for Bestlink College to provide concrete answers and reinforce its commitment to student safety in all future activities.