The seven members of Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity, who were accused in the death of Adamson University student John Matthew Salilig, pleaded not guilty before the Biñan, Laguna Court on Wednesday, April 12.
The seven made the plea that they are not guilty of violating the Republic Act 8049 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018 during the conference held at Biñan Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 155.
The frat members, identified as aliases "Slaughter", "Nike", "Allie", "Loki", "Alcazar", "Macoy", and "Sting", attended the hearing online.
Meanwhile, Salilig's brother John Michael told the media they kind of anticipated that the accused will plead not guilty.
"Sabi ko, 'Uy lalaban'. Ayun ang unang main thing in mind ko. Lalaban sila. We are prepared also for the fight. We are ready also ready," he said.
The next pre-trial conference is scheduled for June 27.
Last March, the Department of Justice (DOJ) panel of prosecutors recommended filing murder complaints and infringement of hazing law against the seven.
On February 28, the Cavite police found the remains of Salilig at a vacant lot in a subdivision in Malagasang, Imus, Cavite.
The third-year chemical engineering student was found a week after attending Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity's welcoming rites.
