PNA file photo
MANILA – The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on Thursday condemned hazing and all forms of violence in higher education institutions (HEIs).
In a statement, the CHED chairperson Prospero de Vera III made the strong remark following the death from hazing of the 24-year-old John Matthew Salilig, a chemical engineering student at Adamson University.
“CHED strongly condemns hazing and all forms of violence in our institutions of higher learning. RA 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 was passed into law on 29 June 2018 to strengthen the enforcement of the Anti-Hazing law. CHED will remain steadfast in its unceasing efforts to rid our higher education institutions of hazing and all forms of senseless acts of violence,” he said.
Meanwhile, de Vera lauded the move of the Department of Justice as it urges authorities to fast-track the investigation.
“We commend Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla for ordering the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct a parallel investigation on the case. We urge the police to expedite its own investigation so the proper charges can be filed against the perpetrators,” he added.
The CHED also expressed its sympathies to the bereaved family of Salilig.
“The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) offers its deepest condolences to the family of John Matthew T. Salilig, a third-year Chemical Engineering student of the Adamson University who recently fell victim to hazing,” de Vera said.
The Adamson University conducted Thursday a requiem mass led by Fr. Marcelo Manimtim, CM, following confirmation of Salilig’s death.
“It is with great sorrow that we confirm the untimely passing of one of our students last February 18, 2023, after the report of his disappearance. We are one with his family and friends in grieving this unexpected and unfortunate loss,” Adamson University earlier said.
The university said it has initiated its investigation alongside cooperation with authorities.
However, it urged students to immediately contact its offices whenever in uncertainty or in danger.
“The management encourages all Adamsonians to be mindful and vigilant of their activities whether inside or outside the campus… Adamson University has always been a familiar space for all of its students, teachers, personnel, alumni, friends and visitors. This is your safe place along San Marcelino. We will ensure that it remains that way,” it added.
To date, the body of the victim already arrived in Zamboanga after being transported to the Edwin Andrews Air Base (EAAB) for the funeral.
On Feb. 28, the Regional Crime Laboratory Office of CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon towns) concluded its autopsy report which identified the cause of death as “severe blunt trauma to the lower extremities.”
The body was reportedly found at Barangay Malagasang 1-G in Imus, Cavite on the morning of the same day. (PNA)
