Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla on Wednesday, Oct. 2, welcomed the conviction of 10 fratmen for their involvement in the 2017 hazing that led to the death of University of Sto. Tomas (UST) law student Horacio “Atio” Castillo III.
“Let this conviction be a warning to those who engage in fraternity hazing, ‘you can never evade the law’,” said Remulla in a statement.
The Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 11 on Tuesday, Oct. 1, promulgated a decision that found guilty beyond reasonable doubt 10 members of the Aegis Juris fraternity for violating Republic Act (RA) 8049, the Anti-Hazing Law.
Those found guilty were Arvin Rivera Balag, Mhin Wei Chan, Axel Munro Hipe, Oliver John Audrey Onofre, Joshua Joriel Macabali, Ralph Trangia, John Robin Ramos, Josel Miguel Salamat, Danielle Hans Matthew Rodrigo, and Marcelino Bagtang.
With their conviction, the RTC sentenced them to reclusion perpetua or imprisonment ranging from 20 to 40 years as well as to pay severally and jointly indemnification to the victim’s family that includes P461,8000 as actual expenses, P75,000 as civil indemnity, P75,000 as moral damages, and P75,000 as exemplary damages.
"Fraternities are created by brotherhood, friendship and mutual support where violence never had a place to begin with,” said Remulla.
“To our younger generations, foster real friendships which will empower and give you a better future, not those which cause pain and suffering," he advised.