Kin of hazing victim cry for justice

BURGOS, Isabela, Philippines—The San Beda law student who died in initiation rites of the Lambda Rho Beta fraternity  is to be buried at a public cemetery here on Saturday by grieving relatives who have become impatient with the pace of the investigation into his death.

The family of Marvin Reglos said they plan to release 25 white balloons at the burial. The number represents his age had he lived to celebrate his birthday this year.

Reglos’ grandmother, Magdalena Reglos-Pascual, 90, said: “I have been sleepless due to the ordeal he got. We hope, Mr. President, you can solve this killing so that we will get justice.”

Despite her  age, Magdalena has regularly attended Reglos’ funeral wake in the village of Caliguian.

Reglos, a former teacher-turned-law student, has been described as a good educator and leader to his  colleagues in school and a kind brother to his relatives.

His sister, Lorvie, expressed her frustration: “I cannot even take revenge for him.”

His mother, Myrna, said: “I can no longer embrace my son. We hope to attain justice soon.”

His grandfather, Manuel, said fraternity hazing must be banned, especially in law schools, to protect “unwilling victims.”

His uncle, Michael Reglos, said he last saw Marvin at a wedding of a relative on January 7. He recalled that Marvin had nagged him to prepare his Barong Tagalog for the wedding.

“[Marvin] is a kind man… we will miss him,” Michael said.