Photo courtesy from PNA

On Tuesday, October 1, 2024, the Manila Regional Trial Court made a significant ruling in the high-profile case surrounding the tragic death of Horacio "Atio" Castillo III, a law student from the University of Santo Tomas (UST). Ten members of the Aegis Juris fraternity were sentenced to reclusion perpetua, which translates to up to 40 years in prison, for their roles in the 2017 hazing incident that led to Atio's untimely death.

The convicted fraternity members are: Arvin Balag, Mhin Wei Chan, Axel Hipe, Oliver Onofre, Joshua Macabali, Ralph Trangia, John Ramos, Jose Miguel Salamat, Daniel Hans Rodrigo, and Marcelino Bagtang Jr. In addition to their prison sentences, the court ordered them to pay over PHP 600,000 in damages.

Presiding Judge Shirley Paglilauan emphasized the profound impact of Atio's death on his family, noting that it caused immense pain and suffering to his loved ones. This ruling marks a crucial moment in the ongoing fight against hazing in the Philippines, reinforcing the consequences of such actions under the law.

Atio's parents expressed their gratitude to the government and private prosecutors, as well as to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, for their swift action in handling the case. The legal proceedings stemmed from a violation of the Anti-Hazing Law, originally enacted in 1995 following another hazing-related death.

This case has been pivotal in highlighting the need for stricter regulations against hazing, leading to amendments in the law to better protect students. As the sentencing concludes, it serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of hazing and the importance of ensuring that such tragedies are not repeated.