Argosy S. Nazareno
NO to HAZING
The recent news regarding the hazing at a PNP camp is daunting. Such act contrary to law has been done not just in an ordinary camp but at a Police Camp. Thanks to technology and grit of the person who took the video, evidence surfaced.
However, the statement of a PNP General regarding the incident in a recent interview shown on national TV is deplorable. He said that hazing in the PNP is rampant and has become some sort of a tradition. He added that he also experienced the same when he was still a young policeman. These facts do not justify the actions of those involved in the recent controversy.
According to Nebraska state law, hazing is “any activity by which a person intentionally or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health or safety of an individual for the purpose of initiation into, admission into, affiliation with, or continued membership with any organization. Such hazing activity shall include, but not be limited to, whipping, beating, branding, forced and prolonged calisthenics, prolonged exposure to elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or harmful substance not generally intended for human consumption, prolonged sleep deprivation, or any brutal treatment of the performance of any act which endanger the physical or mental health or safety of any person.”
The conduct of hazing is not a requisite in order to be accepted in any group or institution just to prove a person’s dedication and worth. It is not the primary mode of discipline just to prove anything especially among uniformed personnel. Philippine National Police beatings, be it for training or admission, violate Republic Act 8049 or the Anti-Hazing Act.
The PNP should not tolerate such violent act and should investigate on the matter. Being public servants, they should be an example to the citizens. What was shown in the video was pure and simple maltreatment activity which was purely offensive in nature. There are numerous ways on how to discipline subordinates and instill respect.
I found solace in the reassurance of DILG Secretary Eduardo Año that his Department will surely conduct an investigation regarding the incident. It is right for the Secretary to defend and cleanse the rank of the PNP that is still plagued with controversy amid the call of the President to continue the cleansing and eradication of rogue cops.
Hazing is a menacing and nefarious behavior, not a rite of passage. Through continued education and information dissemination, organizations can develop other positive ways to bring members together and keep the unity without the need for violence. Hazing is never an instrument of tough love but an exploit to trample one’s rights. If you happen to know any information regarding any hazing activity, do not hesitate to report the incident to the proper authorities. Let us work together to break this reprehensible “tradition”.