SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian denounced the alleged hazing incident in Kidapawan City, where 19 criminology students reportedly suffered severe burns during initiation rites.

“I strongly condemn the alleged hazing incident in a school in Kidapawan City where 19 criminology students sustained severe burns. Nakikiisa ako sa mga biktima at kanilang pamilya sa panawagang papanagutin ang mga responsable,” he said.

He expressed alarm that despite the strict prohibition under the Anti-Hazing Act, violent initiation practices persist and are even carried out within school premises.

“Nakakabahala na sa kabila ng mahigpit na pagbabawal, may mga mag-aaral pa ring nagtataguyod ng ganitong kultura ng karahasan at nagagawa nila ito sa loob pa mismo ng ating mga paaralan,” the senator stressed.

Gatchalian warned that individuals found guilty under the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 or Republic Act 11053 will face the full force of the law.

“My message is clear: those found guilty under the Anti-Hazing Act will face the full force of the law,” he said.

The senator reiterated his call for stricter enforcement of anti-hazing policies in schools and urged educational institutions to strengthen their monitoring and preventive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students.