Horacio “Atio” Castillo III. INQUIRER file photo / LYN RILLON
MANILA, Philippines — After seven years, a Manila court on Tuesday found the 10 fraternity men behind the death of UST law freshman Horacio “Atio” Castillo III guilty of violating the Anti-Hazing Law.
The Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 11 convicted Aegis Juris members Arvin Balag, Mhin Wei Chan, Axel Munro Hipe, Oliver John Audrey Onofre, Joshua Joriel Macabali, Ralph Trangia, Robin Ramos, Jose Miguel Salamat, Danielle Hans Matthew Rodrigo, and Marcelino Bagtang.
“The Court finds the accused guilty beyond reasonable doubt of Violation of Section 4 (1) of Republic Act No. 8049 or the Anti-Hazing Law of 1995,” the court decision read.
All fratmen were sentenced to reclusion perpetua and to jointly and severally pay the heirs of Castillo the amount of P461,800 as actual expenses; P75,000 as civil indemnity; P75,000 as moral damages; and P75,000 as exemplary damages.
“All the amounts shall earn interest at the rate of 6% per annum upon finality of the decision until fully paid,” the order read.
On Sept. 17, 2017, Atio died from hazing while being recruited by Aegis Juris. He was only 22 at that time.
An autopsy showed that Atio suffered severe blunt traumatic injuries, which led to his death.
READ: WHAT WENT BEFORE: Atio Castillo hazing case
The Department of Justice filed criminal charges against the 10 fratmen over the incident.
READ: Court junks bid to dismiss fatal hazing case