The hazing death of Adamson University student John Salilig renewed debate in the Philippines over fraternity violence and enforcement of anti-hazing laws.
Key Facts
- Victim's age
- 24 years old
- University
- Adamson University
- Fraternity involved
- Tau Gamma Phi
- Blows sustained
- 70
- Individuals implicated
- At least 18
- Arrests made
- 7
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
John Matthew Torres Salilig, a 24-year-old third-year chemical engineering student at Adamson University, underwent fraternity initiation rites organized by Tau Gamma Phi in Biñan, Laguna on February 18, 2023. The initiation involved severe physical abuse, with Salilig sustaining at least 70 blows of blunt force trauma.
Salilig died on February 18, 2023, as a direct result of injuries sustained during the hazing. His body was subsequently concealed and later discovered by police in a shallow grave in Imus, Cavite, on February 28, 2023, more than a week after his death.
A police investigation implicated at least 18 individuals in Salilig's death, leading to the arrest of seven people including an alleged master initiator. The case drew widespread public attention in the Philippines, intensifying calls for stricter enforcement of the country's anti-hazing legislation.