Manila: Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. urged members of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity responsible for the alleged hazing death of a college freshman in Cavite to surrender and face the charges against them.
According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Nartatez called on those involved to give themselves up to the authorities to address the alleged crimes. He emphasized the importance of their surrender to resolve the issue and mentioned ongoing investigations despite reports of evidence tampering following a fire at the crime scene.
Nartatez mentioned that at least 21 individuals are involved, and investigators are working to piece together the events. He warned that under the hazing law, victims also face punishment, ensuring no one involved will escape accountability.
Remulla, after meeting with national leaders of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity, echoed the call for the suspects to surrender. He highlighted the fraternity's promise to cooperate fully and reform their initiation practices. Remulla stressed the importance of accountability for the 21 suspects and persons of interest.
The Interior Secretary identified 14 suspects and persons of interest while noting that others remain unidentified. He also identified two more neophytes allegedly hazed during the rites. Remulla indicated they would be charged under the Anti-Hazing Act, with arrest warrants forthcoming.
Remulla urged the identified individuals to surrender voluntarily to avoid being pursued by authorities. He appealed to the fraternity to clean its name by encouraging members to surrender. Remulla emphasized the youth of those involved and urged them to cooperate, offering hope for a resolution.
Martin Asturias, TGP head National Judicial Council and spokesperson, assured Remulla of the fraternity leadership's cooperation in the investigation. Asturias condemned the incident and expressed condolences to the victim's family. He mentioned ongoing internal investigations and the relief of officers from the Cavite and Dasmari±as City chapters.
Asturias stressed the organization's directive for local chapters to adhere to the Anti-Hazing Law, recalling a congress in November 2023 where this was emphasized. This directive followed the fatal hazing of chemical engineering student John Matthew Salilig, whose body was found in Cavite earlier.
