Fraternity registry
IT was highly disturbing to read about the recent expose of a senator regarding the many cases filed against fraternities yet only a handful of victimized families getting justice and some consolation over the painful loss of their children. I recall my own neophyte days undergoing the pre-entry initiation of 35 punches many decades ago as I mourn for the mother and father of UST law student Horacio Castillo III. A good son who could have been a future president of this country. Why such organizations even exist is a legitimate question parents ask. With skewed morals, they beat out the life and future in the flowering of our youth by punches, paddling, and burning for that notorious excuse – brotherhood?
Decades ago, I recollect that at our dining table, where democracy and debate is entertained but only after meals, I intimated to my folks joining a group and the rite of passage involved, meaning hazing. My father patiently listened. Despite nary parental interruptions, I was reasoning out with positive propositions even before disquisition started.
What followed was the slow and calm voice of a father. “Son when your brother argues with you, what do you do? You answer with your point of view. How about when he teases you? Do you not give back in turn? When he quarrels or fights with you, you always hit back. So why do you allow someone who is not even related to hit you? Why do you permit a person not your own blood to hurt you?” This was not argument but ice water being poured on me.
My father continued, “Do you recall my words? The first day you went to school? I said, never take advantage of others. Specially the weak. Do not begin a fight. But never allow yourself to be pushed around. Jesus loves a person who can defend himself from trouble-makers.”
Indeed, certain life decisions we make are best presented to those whose principal concern is always our welfare. The choice between trusting parents vs. fraternity is “no contest.” You do not need a “brotherhood” that validates loyalty by a culture of corporal indignity and torture.
When I became president of San Beda College Student Council, I proposed that fraternities be officially recognized like regular student associations or clubs. “Masters,” members, and recruits identified and documented. Campus and off-school activities transparent, with notice given to Administrators and an accredited fraternity alumnus as adviser. Campus office or cubicles provided them. Their heraldry displayed in hall ways.
The psychosis of street gangs, hooliganism, and going sub-rosa is a “no-no.” Hence, grounds for immediate expulsion of one or the entire membership. A “One strike policy” for prevention. Never again.