7 fratmen facing complaints of homicide, violations of Anti-Hazing Law over Cebu student's death

Cebu City (CNN Philippines, March 26) — Seven members of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity in Cebu City face complaints of homicide and violations of the Anti-Hazing Law over the death of a neophyte during initiation rites last year.

READ: PAO chief calls for abolition of fraternities involved in hazing deaths

Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) spokesperson LtCol. Maria Theresa Macatangay said the seven were named respondents to the complaints filed for the death of Ronnel Baguio, a 20-year-old marine engineering student, before the Cebu City Prosecutor's Office last March 22.

Among the seven were the owner of the home where the hazing took place, the teacher who recruited Baguio, and top officers of the fraternity.

The Public Attorney's Office withheld the names of the suspects but police disclosed that those charged included the fraternity's Grand Triskelion, Deputy Grand Triskelion, Master Initiator, and some resident members.

In a press briefing, Macatangay said authorities have a strong case and they are confident that warrants of arrest will be issued against all seven fratmen. Four of the suspects who earlier surrendered confessed their involvement to the police.

READ: Four suspects in alleged hazing case in Cebu surrender

Macatangay added that authorities might seek a hold departure order against the suspects.

Baguio's mother, Leny, expressed her gratitude for the help she received in seeking justice for her son.

"Naihingi ko na po sila ng tawad sa Panginoon pero hindi ibig sabihin noon ay hindi po sila mananagot sa batas. Kung ano po 'yung batas bilang po nakasaad sa hazing law, 'yun po ang dapat nilang harapin," she said.

[Translation: I have asked God to forgive them but that does not exempt them from answering to the law. They should face whatever is stated by law.]

The Tau Gamma Phi fraternity was also implicated in the death of Adamson student John Matthew Salilig, who succumbed to injuries believed to have been received during initiation rites last February.

Cebu-based journalist Dale Israel contributed to this report.