DILG, PNP URGE FRAT MEMBERS IN CAVITE HAZING DEATH TO SURRENDER

MEMBERS of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity responsible for the alleged hazing death of a college freshman in Cavite on Friday were urged to surrender and face the charges against them.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. made the call in a press briefing held at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Malate, Manila.

Remulla said he met with the national leaders of the Tau Gamma Phi (TGP) fraternity and the fraternity officials promised to cooperate fully and to promote and to reform the culture of violence in their initiations in the aftermath of the death of Kenneth Alcedo, a 19-year-old 1^st year maritime student at the Philippine Nautical and Technological Colleges in Dasmariñas City, Cavite.

“But, first of all, it is the accountability of the 21 suspects and persons of interests that is important,” Remulla said.

 “If you want to clear your brotherhood’s name, surrender now before we get you,” the DILG secretary said in referring to the accused who are said to be merely 18 or 19 years old.

 “You all still have much to do in your lives. Cooperate with us. Let’s fix this. You still have hope. You can still fix this,” he said.

Based on a report from the Cavite Provincial Police Office, Remulla identified 14 of the suspects and persons of interest as: John Ferson Cabrera; Archie Rosil; Felix Martin Dala; John Rey Torrecampo; John Lee Tuilao; John Vicent Malipot; Niel Nicholas Rapatan; John; Michael Jagonoy; Dar Sabilona; Zidane Manglanlan; Gabriel Vergara; Kurt dela Cruz; Alias Kenneth Ompod; Alias Mark.

The other suspects and persons of interest remain John Does, said the DILG secretary.

He also identified two more neophytes who were also allegedly hazed during the purported rites as Jedrick Solomon Bornea and Joel Marce Garcia Jr.

Remulla said the accused will be charged in court for violation of Republic Act (RA) 11053, the Anti-Hazing Act, and warrants of arrest will be issued against them.

“Ngayon nakikiusap ako sa sinabi kong mga pangalan: unahan niyo na mag-surrender kayo kaysa habulin namin kayo. Para rin sa Samahan din ng Tau Gamma Phi, kung gusto niyong maayos ang pangalan ng inyong Samahan, ng inyong kapatiran, unahiin niyo na na mag-surrender kayo,”  Remulla said.

Nartatez also urged those involved to give themselves up to the authorities to answer for the alleged crimes they were involved in.

“Of course, as soon as possible they will surrender. They can do it themselves or through the Tau Gamma. This is important so that once and for all, we can solve this,” Nartatez said.

The top cop said investigations are still ongoing despite the earlier reports of evidence tampering following a fire that occurred on the crime scene.

According to Nartatez, there are at least 21 individuals involved, and investigators are piecing together what really transpired.

“Remember, per the hazing law, when you are a victim you will also be punished. No one will be left here who cannot be punished,” the PNP chief said.

Also present during the press briefing were Police Regional Office 4A director Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas, PNP Public Information Office chief Brig. Gen. Randulf T. Tuaño, and Cavite Police Provincial Office director Col. Ariel Rebanos Red.

Officials provided updates on the progress of the investigation and the continuing efforts to identify and locate other persons of interest involved in the incident.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reaffirmed its commitment to pursue justice for the victim and ensure that all individuals responsible are held accountable under the law.

Meanwhile, Martin Asturias, TGP head National Judicial Council and spokesperson, who also attended the press briefing assured Remulla of the fraternity leadership’s cooperation in the investigation.

“We will conduct expulsion proceedings towards the perpetrators. With the conversation we had with Secretary Remulla, we’ve given our word that we will cooperate with the local authorities and the DILG to get this resolved. Again, we gave our word, so we will keep it and assist the local authorities,” Asturias said.

The Tau Gamma Phi official condemned the incident and expressed condolences to the victim’s family.