SENATE President Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero reminded school officials and administrators of their critical role in enforcing the Anti-Hazing Law, which prohibits and penalizes physical harm inflicted on individuals joining fraternities, sororities, or any organization.

Escudero stressed that it is the responsibility of school officials to be vigilant, observant, and cautious about the organizations they grant accreditation to.

He added that school administrators should ensure all students are aware of the law against hazing.

Escudero pointed out that many school officials tolerate or overlook certain organizations because they themselves are members of fraternities.

He made these remarks after fraternity members were sentenced to reclusion perpetua for the hazing-related death of law student Atio Castillo.

Recently, a Grade 11 student allegedly died due to hazing in Jaen, Nueva Ecija.

Escudero emphasized that even though the Anti-Hazing Law is sometimes violated, it doesn’t mean the law is ineffective—it just needs to be strictly enforced by authorities and schools.

Under the Anti-Hazing Law (Republic Act 11053), fraternities and organizations must be accredited by school management, and initiation rites must be reported without any violence involved. Schools are also mandated to conduct an information campaign at the start of every semester about the penalties for participating in hazing.