12 in student’s death by hazing nabbed in Laguna

MANILA, Philippines — Twelve members of a fraternity tagged in the death of a student during hazing rites in Sorsogon in 2020 were arrested in Calamba, Laguna last Thursday.

Ronnel Balaguer, Billy Berania, Ulysses Berania, Arman Bunyi Jr., Archie Dipon, Mar Charnel Fajardo, Johnson Gealone, Runy Gerero, Remdrant Gerolao, Ronmark Godala, Reniel Guran and Arvin Nuñez were wanted for the death of Omer Despabiladeras in February 2020.

The suspects, all residents of Bulan town, were included in the list of the 10 most wanted persons in Bicol.

They were having a meeting at a house in Barangay Lawa when they were arrested by a joint team of the Bicol and Laguna police.

Authorities said among those arrested were two fraternity members who brought Despabiladeras to a hospital.

The two were first nabbed a few days after the incident, but were released for lack of evidence.

The arrest of the suspects was based on a warrant issued in August 2020.

Despabiladeras collapsed while undergoing hazing rites reportedly conducted by members of the Tau Gamma Fraternity in Barangay San Vicente.

He was declared dead on arrival at the Pantaleon Gotladera Memorial Hospital.

Another student, who underwent hazing along with Despabiladeras, was brought to the Sorsogon Provincial Hospital in Sorsogon City for treatment of injuries.

No bail was recommended for the suspects, who are facing charges for violation of the Anti-Hazing Law.

Police are still looking for 10 other fraternity members believed involved in the hazing.