DepEd says to probe into alleged hazing death of Grade 10 student

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education has vowed to investigate the death of a Grade 10 student in Negros Occidental from alleged hazing.

It came after reports in the San Enrique municipality that a student, who joined a fraternity in March, was killed from hazing-related activities. 

"[DepEd] strongly condemns any violence perpetrated against learners," the agency said in a statement, "and strictly implements the Anti-Hazing Act that prohibits the conduct of hazing or any initiation rites associated with fraternities, sororities and similar organizations."

The said law, or Republic Act 11053, prohibited all forms of hazing in the country. 

An updated version of the measure was enacted in 2018 following the hazing death of UST law freshman Horacio Castillo III, whose fourth death anniversary is today, September 17. 

Education officials said they "deeply regret" the incident and condoled with the family of the student.

The agency cited a 2006 order and reiterated the banning of hazing and operation of fraternities and sororities in basic education schools.

In it, schools are also tasked to work with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, as well as the Philippine National Police, to monitor if the said organizations are existing within their areas.

DepEd added its Order No. 3 this 2021, which mandates its Child Protection Unit to work against all forms of abuse, discrimination and bullying in schools.

It vowed any gang-related or fraternity violence by students would be subject to its guidelines on managing children at risk or those in conflict with the law. 

"The Department will ensure that investigations will be carried out immediately," it said. "We enjoin our schools to take a more active role in the prevention of violence."

The Commission on Human Rights has since said it is also investigating the hazing death of the 10th grader. 

It sought to remind that while classes in the Philippines remain online due to COVID-19, schools "remain duty-bound" to protect the rights of its students. 

"CHR has always held a strong stance against hazing and its consequences," the commission said.

"Hazing is a direct violation of their student’s right to safety, security, and a threat to their well-being," it added.