Tell it to SunStar: On Darwin’s death

PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) confirmed on Friday, Sept. 20, 2019, that Darwin Dormitorio, a Philippine Military Academy (PMA) cadet, sustained injuries from and subsequently died due to hazing.

NUSP extends its condolences to Darwin’s family and friends. We are one with them in demanding justice for him.

Though the PMA has released a statement assuring that individuals involved will face justice, the Union reiterates its timeless position: more than the individuals, it is the institutions themselves--the military and police of the fascist state--which encourage violence. This is their brand of discipline and leadership. Ultimately, this is the value espoused by the Duterte administration. In this context, the Anti-Hazing Law becomes mere lip service.

This is the very thing which the Union, along with other groups, fears will happen should the military and police enter our schools and enforce mandatory ROTC. We will not stand for any more deaths under this regime, in the hands of “disciplined” uniformed goons at the beck and call of their master.

The Union demands justice for all young lives prematurely snuffed out by this regime. No one’s death, not Dormitorio’s, should be in vain.