CHR probes death of Grade 10 student due to alleged hazing

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday said it has started its own probe into the death of a Grade 10 student in San Enrique, Negros Occidental due to alleged hazing.

In a statement, CHR spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia said the circumstances surrounding the student’s death are alarming.

“CHR has always held a strong stance against hazing and its consequences,” she said.

De Guia reminded schools and higher education institutions of their responsibility to uphold and protect the rights of students even with the implementation of online schooling amid the pandemic.

She pointed out that hazing is a direct violation of students’ right to safety and security, and also a threat to their well-being.

“As we investigate this incident, we call upon the Department of Education in line with their Child Protection Policy to take cognizance of this incident,” she added.

De Guia called on schools and education institutions, as well as the security sector to make sure that the Anti-Hazing Act of 2008 is being enforced properly and fully.

She also urged them to be vigilant in monitoring their areas in light of the incident.

“We condole with the victim’s family and his loved ones,” De Guia said.

On September 4, the victim went to his friends for a drinking session after he celebrated his 18th birthday. After this, the victim suffered from body ache.

After several days of feeling unwell, the victim succumbed to his injuries.

The parents said the victim joined a fraternity in March but did not undergo the initiation rites because he is still a minor.

Citing police reports, the CHR said the victim’s death may be due to hazing as a wooden paddle was found in the house of one of the suspects.

It added that the victim reportedly told his parents that the suspects hit him with a paddle.

Police already identified the three suspects linked to the incident but they denied involvement.—Joviland Rita/AOL, GMA News