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Philippines: paddling is necessary for neophytes “to feel” what membership's like
This is interesting, since the woman's arguments sound so familiar (and stupid)
September 07, 2004
10 fratmen, recruits nabbed in hazing rites
MEMBERS of the Sibonga Police Station and tanods of Barangay Upper Bahay, Sibonga, Cebu found more than 30 fraternity members allegedly in a hazing ritual late Sunday afternoon.
However, when they noticed approaching authorities, more than 20 members scampered in different directions.
Only 10 were caught.
Police arrested Abel Navales, 22, Carlos Carcheba, 20, and Michael Bacarisa, 26, all of neighboring Naga town, who are believed to be behind the initiation rites.
Of the 10, only the three did not have bruises on their legs.
They are believed to be members of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity.
The others, believed to be neophytes, were identified as Jefferson Obando, 18, Roger Alforque, 19, Ryan Fiel, 18, John Brando del Mar, 15, Melchor Domiquel, 15, Bernard Ermac, 19, and Teofilo Aldenese, 17.
However, Tau Gamma spokesperson Flor dela Rosa said she has yet to verify if the group was indeed affiliated with the fraternity.
She explained that such initiation rites had to pass through her for approval.
Before going through initiation, dela Rosa said recruits must sign a waiver declaring that they accept whatever happens during the rites.
Dela Rosa said they were especially careful because they are aware that there is an anti-hazing law (Republic Act 8049).
She admitted that recruits had to go through the paddle, with one strike for every word uttered.
Neophytes have to say “I love Tau Gamma Sigma Phi fraternity and sorority” and some names of their founding fathers.
Dela Rosa pointed out that the paddling had limitations.
Any member who violates the code in conducting the initiation rites faces disciplinary actions from the fraternity hierarchy.
She explained the paddling is necessary for neophytes “to feel” what it is like to be a member.
Before the initiation rites, a neophyte has a three-month period to reflect on their code of conduct.
If they feel they are not ready, dela Rosa said this would be the time to back out.
She also said that neophytes have to be at least 18 years old to join the fraternity.
She was surprised to learn that there were minors.
Dela Rosa assured that they will look in to the matter.
She only learned about the arrest from reporters who sought her comment.
According to PO2 Antonio Sanchez, they have heard many reports about hazing rituals in the area, but the members always scamper off before they arrive.
It was only last Saturday that they were able to catch them.
The three men will face charges of violation of the anti-hazing law and child abuse because three of the victims are minors.
He admitted that they failed to find the paddle used in the hazing rites because the fleeing members brought it with them and hid it.
The residents of Upper Bahay heard the noise about 2 p.m.
They were reportedly shouting “I love Tau Gamma Phi” over and over.
At 3 p.m., barangay officials arrived at the police station to report the incident.
The raid was conducted at 4 p.m.
Sanchez said they already took statements of the victims and were scheduled to file charges against the three yesterday afternoon. MEA
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