The evil of hazing must end

The death of yet another young student in the name of “brotherhood” should compel more decisive action against one of the most senseless and brutal traditions of fraternities.

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The brutality suffered by 19-year-old maritime student Mark Kenneth Alcedo last March 1 in Cavite, reportedly inflicted by members of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity, has once again pushed hazing into the headlines.

According to authorities, Alcedo was brought to a hospital by individuals who initially claimed he had been a victim of a hit-and-run accident. The truth soon emerged: Alcedo had suffered blunt force trauma during a fraternity initiation rite. He was declared dead on arrival.

Four fraternity members have surrendered to police. The suspects reportedly identified eight more suspects and 12 other persons of interest. Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla has met with the national leadership of Tau Gamma, who he said promised the surrender of all other suspects by today.

The latest tragedy continues to raise a troubling question: why does hazing persist despite decades of public outrage, painful lessons, and the problem remained. The tragedy led to the passage of RA 11053 which imposes tougher penalties.

Yet despite tough legislation, hazing continues. It’s obvious that tougher laws cannot really make people desist from committing crimes. But here’s the truth: Certainty of arrest and conviction, or a swift and impartial justice system can be the best deterrent to crimes.