Fratmen arrested over anniversary gathering

CEBU, Philippines —  At least 52 members of the Alpha Kappa Rho fraternity, who were arrested Saturday night for violating social distancing protocols and holding a mass gathering, were released from detention after they were made to pay the individual fine of P500.

Police Colonel Roderick Mariano, Cebu Police Provincial Office (CPPO) director, said he has ordered an investigation on the incident that involved 52 frat members for holding an anniversary celebration at Sitio Pitogo 1, Barangay Tubod, Minglanilla, Cebu.

Mariano reminded the public that the prohibition against any form of social gathering is still in effect.

Thus, the anniversary celebration of said fraternity was a violation.

"Bawal talaga yan. Kasi sa nakikita natin, sobrang dami nila at saka pangalawa dun, may report sa kanila, parang nag-iingay, it was reported kaya nagresponde tayo," said Mariano.

"Lagi nating sinasabi sa kanila na iwasan muna natin ang pag-violate ng quarantine (protocols) dahil under pa rin tayo ng quarantine guidelines kasi," he added.

Among those who were arrested with the frat members allegedly were two police officers.

Mariano said they will be investigating the matter, although he could not confirm that there were two police officers that were held captive.

The fraternity members were brought to the police station for booking. They were then released before midnight after they each paid the P500 fine.

The celebration was in line with the fraternity’s 47th founding anniversary.  — GAN (FREEMAN)