Page 40 - College Primer AY 2021-2022

Safe Campus Primer

Question # 16: If I feel I am being bullied and I have proof like a screenshot, will the
school help me if I want to file a legal case?

Answer: As a matter of procedure, the school shall promptly investigate the reported bullying
and determine the appropriate disciplinary administrative sanction if warranted by the
circumstances. Any resolution and/or decision derived from the investigation can be used by the
bullied for possible criminal prosecution, if intended.

Question # 17: I've been hearing stories about some high schools not addressing
bullying because they believe it is a rite of passage. Even my parents say it will make me
stronger emotionally. What can you say about bullying as a rite of passage?

Answer: Bullying is certai nly not a mere ‘rite of passage’ as it is considered to be serious and at
times, with fatal consequences when unchecked. It is not about age, size and gender, but about
power play in a given situation which the school does not tolerate in any form it may be, and in
fact vested with public interest hence, the stricter implementation of guidelines on Anti-Bullying
by the government with possible consequences of criminal prosecution.

Question # 18: I am not a member of a frat but I was once tagged along with a friend to
their hazing event. If ever there was a police raid, will I be implicated? I am not a member,
just a tag along.

Answer: Under Section 14 of Republic Act No. 11053, the presence of any person, even if such
person is not a member of the fraternity, sorority, or organization, during the hazing is a prima
facie evidence of participation therein as a principal unless such person or persons prevented
the commission of acts punishable herein or promptly reported the same to the law enforcement
authorities if they can do so without peril, to their person or family.

Being treated as a principal, the penalty of reclusion temporal in the maximum period and a fine
of One Million Pesos (Php 1,000,000.00) shall be imposed upon all persons who are present in
the conduct of the hazing.

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