PCCR condemns death of graduating student due to hazing

The Philippine College of Criminology (PCCR) released a statement on Tuesday, Oct. 17, condemning the death of one of its graduating students due to hazing.

On Tuesday morning, PCCR confirmed the death of Ahldryn Bravante, a 25-year-old criminology student who died after the hazing rites of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity on Monday, Oct. 13.

Based on the initial report of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD), the victim completed the initiation process but was dizzy and had difficulty breathing, prompting two fraternity members to take him to the Chinese General Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. 

In a statement, PCCR said "We condemn this dastardly act that undermines the very principles of respect for human dignity, and care for one another that we, as the PCCR community, strive to uphold. The loss of a young life due to hazing is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address this issue decisively and comprehensively."

The college institute also extended its condolences to the family of the victim and vowed to support them in attaining justice.

"As we support them and the entire community in mourning this devastating loss, let us respect the privacy of the family."

It said that it has taken necessary steps to hold the perpetrators accountable and to prevent the recurrence of such activities.

"PCCR stands united against hazing. We call on all concerned to strive for a safer and more compassionate environment so that no one should suffer harm or loss due to such senseless acts of violence."

Meanwhile, the two fraternity members who accompanied the victim to the hospital were turned over to the Blumentritt Police community precinct. 

Two other members surrendered to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on Tuesday morning.

Authorities said they are still looking for over 20 members who were involved in the incident.