CEBU, Philippines — In line with the approval of the Philippine Anti-Hazing Law, the Provincial Youth Commission (PYC) has urged the student affairs offices to scrutinize the rationale and activities of student groups that apply for accreditation.
As reported by The Philippine Star yesterday, Republic 11053 or the “Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 bans all forms of hazing in fraternities, sororities and organizations in schools, communities and even businesses and uniformed service learning institutions.
PYC Chairperson James Canoy said that regulating the student organizations can help deter hazing practices.
However, he believes that totally banning the formation of non-academic youth groups in school is not the magic bullet solution to stop hazing.
Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III shares Canoy’s sentiment.
He recalled that he was once a member of a fraternity during his law school years in Diliman and had undergone himself through the hazing process.
He explained that the rationale behind it was to be the “equalizer” and shared experience in the brotherhood.
Despite this, he clarified that hazing is not the only way to prove one’s loyalty to the cause of the group.
Nevertheless, the two leaders welcomed the new development, particularly the imposition of stiffer penalties on violators of RA 11053.
Individuals who planned or participated in the hazing which results in death, rape, sodomy or mutilation will be slapped with a penalty of reclusion perpetua and a fine of P3 million.
Unlike the Anti-Hazing Act of 1995, the new measure also penalizes individuals who will try to cover up hazing activities. (FREEMAN)