MANILA – The investigation into the fatal hazing of 19-year-old maritime student Mark Kenneth Alcedo in Cavite gained a new development as another fraternity member surrendered to law enforcement on Monday night.
The 26-year-old Tau Gamma Phi member voluntarily presented himself to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group–National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) with his lawyer, according to Col. John Guiagui, CIDG-NCR chief. Speaking at Camp Crame, Guiagui said the suspect would be transferred to Trece Martires police for further processing.
“This brings the total number of suspects in custody to seven, with 11 others still wanted,” Guiagui said. He assured authorities are actively reaching out to those involved in the General Trias area and expect more to come forward.
The suspect’s attorney, Jayve Grospe, said his client surrendered to show respect for the legal system and in response to Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla’s appeal for suspects to come forward. Grospe also stated that his client maintains innocence, though he has neither confirmed nor denied his presence during the alleged hazing.
Charges under the Anti-Hazing Law (RA 11053) are expected to be filed against those involved. Alcedo died on March 1 while allegedly undergoing initiation with two other neophytes. Forensic reports indicated he sustained blunt force trauma to the legs, with investigators also noting fruit and chili seed residues on his groin and buttocks.
elamigo/xf
