The Department of Education (DepEd) on Thursday condemned the death of a Grade 10 learner in Negros Occidental allegedly due to hazing.
In a statement, the DepEd assured investigation “will be carried out immediately” following the death of the 18-year-old student on Sept. 9 reportedly due to hematoma.
“We enjoin our schools to take a more active role in the prevention of violence. We deeply regret and sympathize with the family during this difficult time and pray that they be accorded the justice that they deserve,” the statement read.
The DepEd had previously released issuances prohibiting the practice of hazing in schools and imposed sanctions for violations.
“The Department of Education strongly condemns any violence perpetrated against learners and strictly implements the Anti-Hazing Act that prohibits the conduct of hazing or any initiation rites associated with fraternities, sororities and similar organizations,” it said.
Under DepEd Order No. 7 issued in 2006, schools are instructed to coordinate with local units of the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Department of Social Work and Development, and the Philippine National Police to monitor and control the proliferation of fraternities, sororities, and similar organizations in elementary and secondary schools in their respective areas.
“In addition, DepEd Order No. 3, s. 2021, the Child Protection Unit which the Department institutionalizes our commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of abuse, exploitation, discrimination and bullying. Any act of gang-related or fraternity violence committed by learners shall be dealt with in accordance with the provisions of DepEd Order No. 18, s. 2015 or the Guidelines and Procedures on the Management of Children-At-Risk and Children in Conflict with the law,” the DepEd said.
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is already looking into the incident that happened in San Enrique, Negros Occidental.
Citing police reports, the CHR said the victim’s death “may be due to hazing-related activities as a wooden paddle was found in the house of one of the suspects.”
The victim joined a fraternity in March but did not undergo initiation rites because he was still a minor at the time. He celebrated his 18th birthday on Sept. 3.
Prior to the victim’s death, the student reportedly told his parents “that the suspects hit him with a paddle,” the CHR said.
Source: Philippines News Agency