OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM GORDON COLLEGE

Gordon College is aware of the report aired by Bilyonaryo News in January 2026 concerning an alleged ₱19 million overpayment related to the implementation of the Free Higher Education (FHE) program specifically the mismatched definition of laboratory rooms.

In connection with the Commission on Audit’s (COA) rejoinder dated March 14, 2025, regarding Audit Observation Memorandum (AOM) No. CHED-CO-2025-003 concerning the Free Higher Education (FHE) reimbursements to Gordon College for Academic Years 2019-2020 to 2023-2024, the institution submitted its clarifications and justification in coordination with the UniFAST Secretariat and Commission on Audit last May 16, 2025.

The institution’s initial inclusion of the Audio-Visual Room (AVR) fees under laboratory fees was made with good intentions and full transparency. This long-standing policy was openly reflected in the institution’s submitted and approved Tuition and Other School Fees (TOSF), which listed the AVR for laboratory fees. However as early as last year, once informed that “laboratory fees” is strictly interpreted to relate to specific courses that use specialized equipment, which the previous classification may not have fully met, the College adjusted accordingly and removed the said fees from the list.

The College wishes to clarify that funds received under the Free Higher Education program are meticulously allocated and budgeted which undergoes strict audit by appropriate national government agencies, including the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and UniFAST and the Commission on Audit. All collections approved by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) – UniFAST were allocated transparently for the operations and development of the college.

Gordon College is fully cooperating with concerned government agencies and complying with the recommendations of the Commission on Audit. The institution has always upheld transparency, accountability, and the proper stewardship of public funds. We respectfully call on the public to allow due process to take its course and to rely on verified information from official sources. Gordon College remains committed to addressing this matter responsibly and will provide updates as soon as official findings are available.