UP Masscom urges alumna to file raps versus org hazers

The University of the Philippines-College of Mass Communication has asked its alumna, who posted on Facebook her harrowing experience with hazing five years ago, to file the appropriate criminal charges against her tormentors.

In a statement, the college denounced the dehumanizing practice of hazing whether it’s physical or verbal abuse. It expressed concern about the well-being of those who went through physical and psychological hazing while on campus.

“If this can be part of the healing process, we therefore encourage her, as well as others who had undergone similar experiences, to file official charges so that a thorough investigation into the matter may be done and warranted sanctions, imposed,” it said.

The statement came after Filipino indie rock band Oh, Flamingo bassist Billie Dela Paz said on February 29 that she was a victim of hazing five years ago while applying for an organization she did not name.

The post has since gone viral.

“Until now, I sob and shake when I recall the application process. Until now I avoid people, places, and things that remind me of the trauma the org caused,” she wrote in her Facebook post.

“To give you context, the application process for the org was hell. I was abused psychologically and physically. Throughout the process, the members put us under a lot of pressure. They screamed at us, bullied us, and eventually, they physically hurt us,” she added.

GMA News Online reached out to Dela Paz for comment on UP-CMC's suggestion but she has yet to respond.

Dela Paz said the experience left her traumatized and depressed. Because of the trauma, she said that she has started seeing a psychiatrist.

"It took a whole year to 'clean up' my life. I joined another org, UP Music Circle, and channeled all my energy into my passion for music instead. There was never any bullshit, no harrassment. The application process activities had REAL MEANING, and I found real friends in the org," she said.

“To the orgs and UP admin, I hope you don't wait until someone commits suicide because of the pressure of applying for orgs like that. Please, I beg you to do something about the hazing in orgs,” she ended her story.

In their statement, UP-CMC responded by reiterating that they are committed to remain true to their anti-hazing, pro-student welfare stance by bringing the issue of hazing to the consciousness of the youth.

“Hazing has no place in a university that upholds honor and excellence; hazing has no place in a nation that respects and protects the dignity of man,” it said.

Republic Act No. 8049 or the Anti-Hazing Law  says, "No hazing or initiation rites in any form or manner by a fraternity, sorority or organization shall be allowed without prior written notice to the school authorities or head of organization seven (7) days before the conduct of such initiation." -Trisha Macas/NB, GMA News