Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla on Friday, March 6, demanded the immediate surrender of 21 fraternity members linked to the fatal hazing of a freshman maritime student in Cavite.
The victim, Mark Kenneth Alcedo, 19, a first-year student at the Philippine Nautical and Technological College (PNTC) and resident of Brgy. Langkaan 2, Dasmariñas City, died following initiation rites on March 1, police confirmed.
Nine suspects have been formally identified, while 12 others are considered persons of interest. Most of them are students aged 18 to 19, according to Cavite Police Provincial Office director Col. Ariel Red.
Investigators said Alcedo was hazed in an open field in Barangay Langkaan before being rushed to a hospital in General Trias by three individuals, who falsely claimed he was a hit-and-run victim.
He later died of severe blunt force trauma, with autopsy findings revealing multiple injuries and foreign objects inserted into his body.
One of the three who brought Alcedo to the hospital surrendered on March 3, providing an affidavit that named those involved. He was later released.
Remulla condemned the incident as “unacceptable,” urging suspects to surrender voluntarily: “Huwag niyo na hintayin ang PNP ang makahanap sa inyo. Walang EJK dito ah pero mas maganda na i-surrender na nila kasi hahabulin namin ang nang-abuso.”
Charges will be filed under Republic Act No. 11053 (Anti-Hazing Law), which prohibits hazing in fraternities, sororities, and organizations.
Meanwhile, Tau Gamma Phi’s national leadership vowed cooperation with authorities.
Spokesperson Martin Asturias said the fraternity condemns the incident, has extended condolences to Alcedo’s family, and will expel members proven to be involved. (Martin Sadongdong)
