The PNP-Biñan, Laguna has arrested seven of the 17 persons of interest in the death of John Matthew Salilig, a 3rd-year chemical engineering student of Adamson University, who underwent the initiation rites of Tau Gamma Phi.
It is known that Salilig, 24, received at least 70 strokes during the initiation rites. It appears that 14 were initiated, three underwent welcome rites while 1 was a neophyte.
According to PLt. Col. Virgilio Jopia, acting chief of police of PNP-Biñan, is also looking for a 24-year-old alumni of Adamson University and the owner of the SUV that Salilig was riding in before it was buried in Imus, Cavite this Tuesday.
Salilig was found with bruises on his leg which were indicative of being hit by hard objects.
One of the suspects admitted that the victim received 70 blows during the said initiation.
After the activity, the victim reportedly died while in the car.
According to Jopia, it is possible that the victim was also used with other objects besides the paddle. They are still awaiting the results of the autopsy.
Knowing that Jopia was possibly driven by extreme fear, they decided to go to the police and tell what they knew, including where Salilig was buried.
“Dahil sa ginawa nating masusing investigation doon sa lahat ng personalities involved, isa-isa silang nagpunta sa ating police station,” added Jopia.
7 persons of interest in Salilig hazing now in custody of PNP
Jopia insisted the case could be considered ‘solved.’ Some of them have also been charged with obstruction of justice.
Meanwhile, Salilig’s older brother, John Michael, said that his brother mentioned to him that he would attend the welcoming rites of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity group in Laguna on February 18.
As a group member, John Michael said he allowed his brother to attend the activity, which he deeply regrets.
Meanwhile, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin ‘Benhur’ Abalos Jr. has ordered a thorough investigation into the death of Salilig.
Adamson University will also conduct its own investigation into the case.
Mer Layson, president of the Adamson University Parents Teachers Association (ADU-PTA), strongly condemns the violent hazing that killed a university student.
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