Manila: Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said Thursday the 'full force of the law' must fall on those behind the alleged hazing of more than 100 police recruits in Lamitan City, Basilan. 'The only acceptable outcome is the full force of the law falling upon those who committed these reprehensible acts. Let us remain vigilant until those accountable are made to pay for their crimes,' Gatchalian said. A total of 54 police officers are reportedly facing criminal charges in connection with the incident.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gatchalian noted that hazing has no place in any institution, especially among law enforcers tasked to uphold the rule of law. 'I strongly condemn the alleged hazing of over 100 police recruits in Lamitan City, Basilan, where a total of 54 officers are now facing criminal charges. Malinaw ang Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 or RA 11053: itinuturing na krimen ang anumang uri ng hazing (The Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 or RA 11053 is clear: any form of hazing is considered a crime),' he said.

He questioned how the public can feel secure if those sworn to enforce the law are themselves accused of violating it. 'Paano natin mararamdamang ligtas ang ating bansa kung ang mga dapat nagtataguyod ng batas ay sila mismong lumalabag dito (How can we feel safe in our country if those who are supposed to uphold the law are the ones breaking it)?' he added.

Republic Act 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018, criminalizes all forms of hazing and imposes penalties on perpetrators and responsible officials who fail to prevent such acts.