Palace forms task force to review Hazing Law

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang has ordered a review of the Anti-Hazing Law to strengthen its implementation amid growing fraternity-related violence.

Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. said an inter-agency task force was created to step up government’s response to hazing as fatalities continued to occur.

“The task force seeks to address the need to ensure that there is justice for hazing fatalities and their families. At the same time, we have to look at whether the law can be improved so that its objectives are met,” Ochoa said.

“President Aquino shares the concern of many parents and educators over violations of the Anti-Hazing Law,” he added.

Under Memorandum Order No. 68 that Ochoa signed on Aug. 28, the secretary of justice will lead the task force and will be given full executive authority within the law to carry out the functions of the interagency body.

The task force chairman may also give direct operational instructions to any member agency, including the Department of National Defense, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Commission on Higher Education, Philippine National Police, National Youth Commission and the Office of the Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs.