CNU faces probe over structural, permit violations

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu Normal University (CNU) is under scrutiny after the Cebu City Office of the Building Official (OBO) issued a notice of violation following an inspection that uncovered structural damage and regulatory lapses in two of its major buildings.

The inspection was conducted on October 7, 2025, in response to reports of tilting and visible damage after the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu on September 30.

City engineers, along with CNU’s General Services Unit and a structural consultant, inspected the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Building and the Library Building at the university’s main campus on Osmeña Boulevard, Barangay San Antonio.

Cracks and chipping were found on the concrete gutter of the Library Building and on the façade of the CAS Building. Spalling, or the breaking of concrete, was also observed on the slab and beam of the bridge connecting the Teacher and Arts Centrum Building to the Arts and Sciences Academic Building.

Inspectors noted that these conditions indicated possible differential foundation settlement and raised concerns about the structural integrity of both buildings.

The inspection further revealed that the CAS Building was constructed with eight storeys and a roof deck, despite having an approved building permit for only six storeys. No Occupancy Permit was presented on-site, even though the building was already in use.

The notice of violation was served by OBO inspector Engr. Rozien R. Rivera and received by CNU Administrative Officer IV Christian Alvin Arquillos.

When sought for comment, the university’s communications team confirmed that both the city and university technical teams found cracks and structural damage in the buildings after the earthquake.

However, they said CNU will formally address the matter in a press conference scheduled for Saturday.

“Through this press conference, we seek to present proper information and address these matters clearly for the media and the general public,” the CNU communication team said.

Meanwhile, Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO) chief Aderson Comar said that while no official communication from the OBO had reached his office as of press time, he would assign personnel to implement precautionary measures in the affected areas.

The OBO has recommended that the CAS and Library Buildings remain unoccupied until a comprehensive geotechnical and structural assessment is completed and the necessary repairs and retrofitting are undertaken. The university was also reminded to secure amended building and occupancy permits in compliance with the National Building Code of the Philippines.

Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, for his part, said the city is planning a structural audit of public infrastructure to assess resiliency against disasters and is pushing for the construction of a centralized evacuation center.

Following the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck northern Cebu, multiple structures—including government-funded ones—were damaged. In Cebu City, the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW), along with the OBO and other engineers, prioritized the inspection of schools to ensure their structural integrity before the resumption of physical classes.

Archival said the city has accepted the recommendation to conduct a structural audit of all government-owned infrastructure, particularly those that may not have undergone proper inspection.

“Ang akong naobserbaran didto sa pag-adto nako (Northern Cebu), naay usa bitaw ka gymnasium where ang mga tawo magpundok, usa ana maoy nalusno mao na nuon ang naka-igo sa mga tawo,” Archival said.

He added that aside from monitoring projects of both the DEPW and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the city will now also evaluate the integrity of government-owned buildings.

Moving forward, Archival said one of his administration’s priorities is to build a large evacuation center that is strong enough to protect residents during calamities such as earthquakes and typhoons.

“That evacuation area, we should have our own kitchen, our own water supply, our own power supply,” he said.

“Kay the moment gani nga inig cut sa power, automatic gyud na nga walay power sa water… so that is one direction nga atong gitan-aw,” he added.

The mayor also emphasized the need for more mobile kitchens and a mobile pumping station that can be deployed anywhere during emergencies to address flooding and water supply shortages.

While Cebu City sustained no massive damage, the local government has committed to conducting a comprehensive structural assessment and extending assistance to heavily affected areas.

As inspections continue, the city is also urging private companies to have their buildings assessed before resuming full operations.

Three days after the earthquake, Councilor Dave Tumulak, chairperson of the Committee on Disaster, said the assessment to determine the structural integrity of city buildings is still ongoing.

While the government inspects public structures, Tumulak urged the private sector to mobilize their safety officers to conduct similar assessments.  FPL (CEBU NEWS)