UST accepts ‘interrupted’ salutatorian

MANILA, Philippines - The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has accepted salutatorian Krisel Mallari, who became controversial when Sto. Niño Parochial School (SNPS) officials interrupted her just as she started criticizing her school in her graduation speech.

According to the Varsitarian, the university’s official student publication, UST Alfredo M. Velayo College of Accountancy dean Patricia Empleo confirmed that Mallari, 16, has been allowed to enroll for the incoming school year. 

“She was accepted on the merit of the credentials she presented to us,” Empleo was quoted as saying.

Last month, she filed a petition before the Court of Appeals (CA) after SNPS refused to issue a certificate of good moral character, which is a requirement for her admission into UST’s accountancy program.

The CA sided with Mallari and ordered the school to issue the certificate. 

The SNPS initially declined, citing its plans to appeal the order, but later gave in after Mallari, with the assistance of Chief Public Attorney Persida Rueda-Acosta, asked the CA to cite school officials in contempt. 

The certificate that was issued contained an explicit statement saying it is being released under protest. 

Mallari on Monday filed an urgent manifestation saying she intends to pursue the contempt charges due to the wording of the certificate. 

Acosta said Mallari enrolled yesterday afternoon, immediately after learning of UST’s decision.

She believes Mallari’s acceptance into UST is a vindication for the student.

“We won… Justice prevailed for the best interest of the child,” Acosta said, adding that UST “respected” the CA’s decision.

She said Mallari will be a “scholar since she passed the university’s entrance examination and the scholarship examination.”