UST Committee expels 8 law students in connection with the death of
Mr. Horacio Castillo III
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) confirmed that the Committee tasked to investigate the death of Mr. Horacio Castillo III has issued its first resolution finding eight (8) law students guilty of violating the Code of Conduct and Discipline and imposing the supreme penalty of expulsion.
The Committee which was formed by the UST Rector on 19 September 2017 is composed of six administrators and a representative from the Central Student Council. It conducted hearings in the presence of representatives from the Legal Education Board (LEB). It observed the due process requirements under University policies and pertinent LEB guidelines. It shall continue its investigation until all students who were involved in the hazing incident are held administratively liable.
From September 19, 2017 onwards, the University closely coordinated with the Manila Police District and National Bureau of Investigation which led to the early identification of the offenders and filing of charges in the Department of Justice. It submitted reports and pertinent documents to LEB, Philippine Senate and Commission on Higher Education. It sent authorized representatives to the Senate hearings.
In October 2017, the Office for Student Affairs (OSA) conducted a University-wide seminar for organization advisers and student leaders on Anti-hazing Law. It recommended a comprehensive review of the Student Handbook and the accreditation process for organizations. It issued an indefinite moratorium on the recruitment and all other activities of all fraternities and sororities in the University.
The University reiterates its commitment to ferret out the truth, determine liability, and impose the appropriate sanctions. In the Eucharistic Celebrations held at the UST Faculty of Civil Law, at the Santuario de San Antonio during the wake and at the UST Chapel during the day of mourning for the death of Horacio, UST has always been one with the Castillo family in the steadfast call for everyone to pray and work together to achieve justice for Horacio and for truth to prevail.
