The body of a college student who has been missing for more than a week and is suspected of being a victim of hazing was found this Tuesday in Cavite.
February 19 when John Matthew Salilig, a chemical engineering student from Adamson University, was reported missing.
His body was found in a vacant lot in Cavite after the suspect allegedly pointed out its location. Matthew was positively identified by his older brother, John Martin.
Based on the brother’s story, Matthew said goodbye on February 17 to attend the welcoming rites of a fraternity in Biñan, Laguna.
On the morning of February 18, Matthew was seen boarding a bus terminal in Buendia near Pasay City, along with other members of the organization, based on CCTV footage. On the night of that same date, it is believed that the victim died.
According to the main witness in the case, the group decided to dispose of Matthew’s body.
On February 19, Martin received an anonymous message about what happened to his brother after the welcoming rites.
The next day, Martin reported to the Manila Police District, which immediately contacted the Biñan police.
Authorities have identified 18 suspects, who will be charged with violating the Anti-Hazing Law.
In a statement Tuesday, Adamson University confirmed the death of a student who had been reported missing, although it has not been named.
Alleged hazing victim from Adamson found dead in Cavite
Adamson announced that it is conducting its own investigation into the incident and assured to contact the authorities regarding the case.
Adamson also urged the public to avoid spreading “unverified information” about the incident.
Matthew’s remains have been taken to the funeral home. It is said that the autopsy and DNA test are being prepared before taking him home to their province in Zamboanga.
Republic Act No. 11053 states:
“(a) Hazing refers to any act that results in physical or psychological suffering, harm, or injury inflicted on a recruit, neophyte, applicant, or member as part of an initiation rite or practice made as a prerequisite for admission or a requirement for continuing membership in a fraternity, sorority, or organization including, but not limited to paddling, whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical and psychological health of such recruit, neophyte, applicant, or member. This shall also include any activity, intentionally made or otherwise, by one person alone or acting with others, that tends to humiliate or embarrass, degrade, abuse, or endanger, by requiring a recruit, neophyte, applicant, or member to do menial, silly, or foolish tasks.”
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