By Alec Go
The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) expressed condemnation of hazing and violence in schools following the death of Adamson student John Matthew Salilig due to hazing.
In a statement on Thursday, March 2, CHED vowed to keep its efforts to eliminate hazing and violence in schools.
“CHED strongly condemns hazing and all forms of violence in our institutions of higher learning,” CHED said, as it noted the passage of the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 to intensify measures against hazing.
The commission also expressed condolences to Salilig’s family.
It also urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) to expedite its investigation for the proper filing of charges against the perpetrators.
“CHED enjoins all higher education stakeholders, especially our schools, faculty, staff and students, to join hands and actively strive to end this culture of violence that continues to plague our institutions of higher learning,” it stated.
“We commend Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla for ordering the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct a parallel investigation on the case,” it added.
Authorities confirmed the death of the Adamson student on Tuesday. His body was found in a field in Imus, Cavite, days after his reported disappearance.
The PNP has identified 17 persons of interest on Wednesday, including seven under its custody.
On Thursday, one individual surrendered to Cavite Gov. Jonvic Remulla.
The Biñan PNP said the individual was the “designated master initiator” and one of those who allegedly buried Salilig. – gb
