Kapihan sa Manila Hotel tackles the issue of hazing

September 13, 2024

August 21, 2024, Manila, Philippines – Today’s Kapihan sa Manila Hotel, held at the Champagne Salon, featured a discussion on the issue of hazing, hosted by The Manila Hotel President and former Senator Atty. Jose “Joey” D. Lina, Jr., alongside Manila Bulletin Publisher Sonny Coloma. The forum included guests Col. Margareth Francel Padilla PA from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Imelda Livioco, Executive Director of Crusade Against Violence (CAV), and Dexter Dormitorio, brother of hazing victim Darwin Dormitorio. The panel discussed whether recent court convictions of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) cadets in the hazing and murder case of Darwin Dormitorio could bring an end to these recurring incidents. 

Kapihan sa Manila Hotel featured a discussion about the issue of hazing

The Baguio City Regional Trial Court Branch 5 sentenced three former PMA cadets to up to 40 years in prison for the 2019 murder and hazing of 20-year-old cadet Darwin Dormitorio. Presiding Judge Maria Ligaya Itliong-Rivera found former cadets Shalimar Imperial Jr. and Felix Lumbag Jr. guilty of murder, while former cadet Julius Tadena guilty of violation of Republic Act 11053, the updated Anti-Hazing Law, for Dormitorio’s death. 

Former Senator Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr., who authored the original Anti-Hazing Law, Republic Act No. 8049 in 1995, emphasized the need to break the ‘conspiracy of silence’ surrounding hazing. He stressed the responsibility of parents, school administrators, and the public to recognize the dangers posed by hazing. 

Col. Margareth Francel Padilla PA highlighted the reforms implemented by the AFP under the leadership of General Romeo Brawner, Jr. the current AFP Chief of Staff, in response to the enforcement of the Anti-Hazing Law. “The AFP is an evolving organization that adapts to the times. General Brawner, who also served as the Commander of Cadets to PMA in the aftermath of Dormitorio’s death, has ensured these reforms will benefit the future generations of cadets. As a mother of a current 2nd class cadet at the PMA, I believe these changes will safeguard our cadets from such tragedies.” When asked about the reaction from other PMA alumni, she remarked, “We respect the court’s decision. It is unacceptable to lose a life. There are traditions that uphold brotherhood without violence, and other PMA alumni are open to embracing these reforms for the betterment of future cadets.” 

Kapihan sa Manila Hotel held at The Champagne Salon

Dexter Dormitorio expressed the pain his family has endured throughout this ordeal. “Medyo nabunutan ng tinik. This battle for justice has been against all odds. Our family’s advocacy against hazing is not just for my brother but to end this evil practice. Now, we can begin to focus on how we actually feel and to move forward.” When asked for his message to PMA cadets, he stated, “Ang mali ay mali. The Honor Code emphasizes honesty and integrity; hazing is tantamount to cheating and lying and clearly violates the Honor Code. This is the military, where strict guidelines and rules are followed. Upperclassmen should guide cadets correctly and encourage them to tell the truth.” 

About Kapihan sa Manila Hotel: 

Kapihan sa Manila Hotel (Kapihan) stands as a distinguished platform for dialogue and progress, organized and hosted by The Manila Hotel’s esteemed president and former Senator, Atty. Jose “Joey” D. Lina, Jr. This weekly forum is designed to engage media members on a diverse array of topics and issues of national interest. It serves as a dynamic meeting ground for government officials, industry experts, journalists, content creators, and community members. Each session of Kapihan features Atty. Lina, alongside Manila Bulletin Publisher Mr. Sonny Coloma, who guide the discussions. A curated panel of guests delves into a specific topic, followed by an interactive segment, where media participants can pose questions. Building on its success, Kapihan has expanded its dialogues to The Manila Hotel’s sister property, and now hosting Kapihan sa Manila Prince once a month. To broaden its reach and facilitate a wider audience engagement, Kapihan is streamed live on Facebook through https://www.facebook.com/Joey.Lina.51. 

  

Manila Prince Hotel Pet Policy

To ensure a pleasant stay for all guests, Manila Prince Hotel management kindly asks the full cooperation of the Responsible Fur Parent. The below policies should be observed at all times:

  • Only vaccinated cats and dogs under the size of 2 feet may stay in Manila Prince Hotel. Proof of vaccination is required.
  • Only one pet per room is permitted. Applicable Pet Fee applies.
  • Only registered in-house pets are permitted on the hotel premises.
  • Pets should always be on a leash or carrier while in public areas of the hotel.
  • Pets should always wear diapers—including inside the guest room.
  • Pets should not be left unattended anywhere within the hotel premises—including inside the guest room.
  • Pet owners should maintain the overall cleanliness and hygiene of pets.
  • Pet owners should properly clean and dispose of any waste.
  • Pets are only allowed in the guest room assigned to owners and at other pet-friendly public areas identified by the hotel.
  • Housekeeping will only service the guest room as long as pets are not present inside the room.
  • Pet owners accept full responsibility for any personal injuries and/or property damage caused by their pets.
  • Pet owners should promptly report and declare any damages caused by their pets.
  • Pet owners are solely liable for any claims, losses, liabilities, damages, costs, charges, fines, penalties, and/or expenses that may arise as a result of bringing pets into the hotel.
  • The hotel may collect and use the information provided about the pet owners and their pets for emergency purposes and to process any applicable fees. Hotel management reserves the right to relocate pet owners and pets when deemed disruptive to hotel operations or causes inconvenience to other guests.
  • Management reserves the right of final interpretation of the policies.
  • Pet owners should be mindful of the hotel’s quiet hours and keep the noise level to a minimum, especially during the nighttime.

Thank you.

Manila Prince Hotel Management