MANILA — Senator Raffy Tulfo pushed for amendments to the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018, citing the continued occurrence of hazing incidents despite the law’s enactment.

“This culture is not confined to schools and universities alone,” Tulfo said, noting that hazing also persists in the military.

He cited the case of Private Charlie G. Patigayon, who recently died following initiation rites in the Philippine Army. His father sought assistance from Raffy Tulfo in Action (RTIA) last August 28. Officials linked to the case have been relieved pending investigation.

Tulfo stressed that gaps in the current law make it difficult to hold commanding officers accountable under the principle of command responsibility.

To address this, the senator filed Senate Bill (SB) No. 1318, which seeks to amend Republic Act No. 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Law.

Under the measure, liability will extend to commanding officers, superiors, institutions, and even property or vehicle owners connected to hazing cases through the presumption of negligence.

“The proposed amendments aim to break the cycle of hazing by holding accountable all those who enable, tolerate, or fail to prevent acts of hazing. The amendments replace old traditions with a culture of safety, respect, and accountability,” Tulfo said.

The bill requires schools, military units, fraternities, and sororities to establish anti-hazing mechanisms, including anonymous reporting channels to protect concerned citizens. Fraternities and sororities must also register with local police stations and submit a list of officers.

Those found guilty of hazing—including property and vehicle owners involved—may face reclusion perpetua, or 20 to 40 years of imprisonment, plus fines ranging from ₱1 million to ₱2 million. Schools proven negligent may be penalized with a ₱2 million fine.

Tulfo said the goal is to put an end to the cycle of hazing and ensure accountability for those who perpetuate violence that often targets students and young people.