The University of the Philippines Los Baños campus in Laguna. (Photo from UPLB.EDU.PH)
LUCENA CITY — The University of the Philippines Los Baños Inter-Fraternity Council (UPLB IFC) vehemently condemned hazing and all forms of fraternity-related violence, a statement issued by the group on Saturday, March 4, said.
The UPLB IFC called for all fraternities, sororities, and organizations “to reject the tradition of hazing, not only in the accordance with the Republic Act No. 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Law, but in respect for basic human rights.”
Tau Alpha, Beta Nu Epsilon, Beta Sigma, Demolay Club, Epsilon Chi, Society of Men, Sigma Rho and Zeta Beta Rho signed the statement, a copy of which was posted on the Facebook page of UPLB Perspective, the campus news organ.
The statement was issued after Adamson University chemistry junior John Matthew Salilig, 24, died from the brutal hazing conducted by at least 17 Tau Gamma Phi (TGP) members during the “welcoming rites” held in Biñan City, Laguna on Feb. 18.
Ten days later, his battered naked body was found in a shallow grave in Imus City, Cavite. He was interred in his hometown, Zamboanga City, on Saturday morning.
As of Saturday, criminal charges were filed against seven TGP members.
The council demanded the authorities take “swift and severe actions against the perpetrators” of the heinous crime.
The alliance said they will also be closely coordinating with the UPLB administration and student council to make sure that these violent incidents shall never happen in the university and community.