4 Chapter 4 and 5

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Chapter 4
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA
This chapter presents in detail the data on the lived experiences of high school
fraternities and sororities in Canlaon City. The experiences of these fraternity members
are presented as they emerged from the transcribed manuscript culled from the in-depth
interviews that were conducted by the researcher with the participants. Significant
statements in the actual words used by the participants are presented to provide the depth
and richness of the description of their experiences and the insights and meanings that
they have gained while they are in the world of fraternity.
Participant 1 (“Pablo”)
“Pablo” is a seventeen-year-old boy and lives with his grandmother. His mother
already passed away and he never knew his father. He comes to school every day wearing
his and his spiky hair white shirt and blue maong pants. He has piercing in both ears. He
is an irregular third year student of JBCMHS-Uptown and usually stays outside the
classroom.
The interview happened during his free time. During the interview he was in his
school uniform, sporting a goatee and with his black back pack. For someone who does
not know “Pablo”, he appears conceited or boastful. He speaks fast and in a muttering
voice. Pablo shares:
1. “Wala sir murag na invite ra man sir nga mo intra ana… mao to pagsulod
nako murag nausab akong pantan aw sir ba… sukad atong daghan
nangamatay sir… basig maabot pa na nako ba.” (None sir, I was just like
invited to join, then when I was in it change my perspective… when there
were more deaths, then it might happen to me.)
36
2. “Wala ra sir, trip ra sir.” (None sir, it was just a trip.)

3. “Kanang makuan sir unsa kasakit nang bunal sir.” (I want to know how
painful it is to be paddled)
4. “Wala jud sir. Patabangon sa park.” (None sir. We assist in the park.)
5. “Ordinaryo ra man ka gyapon nga tawo bisan naa kas fraternity.” (Even if
you are a member of the fraternity, you are still an ordinary person.)
6. “Kon kuan sir makalisod naay motabang nimo, pahero anang makakita kag
kontra sir, naa dayon mosuporta nimo dri sa likod. Lain ra jud ang kanang
tinuod nga barkada kay kon migo migo ra kay tan awon ra ka kon mag
kalisod na ka.” (There is always someone to help me when I’m in need, when
I have foes, there will always be somebody to support me. Real friends are
different. As for others, they will just look at you even you’re in pain.)
7. “Kanang, pareho anang naa kay kinanglan makaduol dayon ka nila. Barkada
nako sir. Nasamot mig ka close sir” (For example, you can always approach
them. My friends and I are closer than before).
8.“Kay dira naman ko nagsugod ako na lang taposon.” (SinceI started it I will
finish it.)
9.“(Laughs) di ra di na ko mobalhin sir, dili na mobalhin ug lain sir, diha na lang
jud ko.” [(Laughs) I will not transfer sir, I will not transfer to other groups. I
will stick to them.]
10. “(Laughs) wala ra sir, naa man akong barkada, nya na close na mi sa usag-
usa. Kay ug mukuan ang usa, hawa ang tanan.” [(Laughs), nothing sir, my
friends are there, we became very close with each other. If one will transfer,
all will leave.]
11. “O sir, dili pud ko kasiguro ana nga tanan sir pareho anang sa uban sir, usa
ray mopahawa.” (Yes sir, I’m not sure if all will leave like in other group,
maybe only one.)
12. “Kuan sir, murag naa man goy misteryo if ma member na ka sa frat sir,
tungod kay murag kuan gani sir… nang dili sya para sa tanan ba, gina
initiate pa gani sir usa ka membro.” (There is a mystery if you a member of a
fraternity because it is not for everyone; before you enter you are initiated.)
13. “Wala man sir, katong sauna wala mang toy ingon nga gubot sir.”
(Everything was alright sir, we did not get into trouble)
14. “Kuan ra to amo sir, bunal2, mao ra to sir.” (The hazing sir, that’s all)
15. “Dako sir e, maayo na gud ta akong record dri sa city high, dayon na
transfer me sir sa Annex, nya ulihi na kaayo mi sa klase sir.” (My record in
city high was good, then I was transferred to Annex, then I was not able to
cope with the lessons.)
16. “Nalain sir, kay nabulag ko sa among mga barkada dri si, unya na balhin mi
sa wala kaayo miy kaila.” (I was separated with my “barkada-friends”, I was
transferred and do not know anyone.)
37
17. “Wala sir, sige rag ambak, gawas, dili mosulod.” (Nothing sir, I am always
jumping over the fence, going out, and always skipping class.)
18. “Maulihi ka sa kuan sir, far out man kaayo to ilang leksyon didto.” (I was not
able to catch up with the lessons.)
19. “Wala sir. Niundang kog usa ka tuig sir. Atong niaging tuig moeskwela ta ko
galing didto man ko sa Dumaguete sir, tambay kog Dumaguete.nya karon sir
nieskwela kog balik sir. Magbinot an kono. Mao ra man gyapon.” (Nothing
sir. I quit school for a year. Last year I planned to enroll in Dumaguete sir, I
stayed in Dumaguete. Now I returned to school. Trying to be good but I am
still the same.)
20. “ Ang makuan lang nako sir kon mointra sila sir dili na kinahanglang nga
sudlan kay lain jud kaayo, ang pagsakit. Dili sila maparehas namo sir nga
bugbog sarado. ” (The only thing I can say is, it is not necessary to join
because the paddling is not good. They will not experience being mauled like
me.)
21. “Bun og kaayo ang paa nimo sir ba, lain kaayo tanawon. Maayo gani amo sir
kay nanglagum ra ang uban kay naay juy mangliki.” (It was not pleasing to
see because I had bruises on my legs. I was just thankful that I only had black
spots on my legs not like others who had cuts.)
22. “A dili na sir e. abi nako ang bunal gagmay ra sir ba… nag pakuan namo sir
kay dagko diay kaayo sir ba. Padayon na lang sir e kay nasugdan na gud.”
(No, sir. All the while I thought the paddle was rather insignificant in size but
during the initiation it was huge. I cannot back out because it has started
already.)
Themes for Participant 1
Curiosity
1. “Wala sir murag na invite ra man sir nga mo intra ana… mao to pagsulod
nako murag nausab akong pantan aw sir ba… sukad atong daghan
nangamatay sir… basig maabot pa na nako ba.” (None sir, I was just invited
to join, then when I was in it change my perspective… when I heard about
more deaths, then I realized that it might happen to me too.)
2. “Kanang makuan sir unsa kasakit nang bunal sir.” (I want to know how
painful it is to be paddled)
Belongingness
1. “Kanang, pareho anang naa kay kinanglan makaduol dayon ka nila. Barkada
nako sir. Nasamot mig ka close sir” (For example, you can always approach
them. My friends and I are closer than before.)
38
2. “Kon kuan sir makalisod naay motabang nimo, pahero anang makakita kag
kontra sir, naa dayon mosuporta nimo dri sa likod. Lain ra jud ang kanang
tinuod nga barkada kay kon migo migo ra kay tan awon ra ka kon mag
kalisod na ka.” (There is always someone to help me when I’m in need, when
I have foes, there will always be somebody to support me. Real friends are
different. As for others, they will just look at you even you’re in pain.)
Secret life
1. “Kuan sir, murag naa man goy misteryo if ma member na ka sa frat sir,
tungod kay murag kuan gani sir… nang dili sya para sa tanan ba, gina
initiate pa gani sir usa ka membro.” (There is a mystery if you a member of a
fraternity because it is not for everyone; Before you enter you are already
initiated.)
2. “Wala ra sir, trip ra sir.” (None sir, it was just a trip.)
Social Responsibility
1. “Wala jud sir. Patabangon sa park.” (None sir. We assist in the park.)
2. “Ordinaryo ra man ka gyapon nga tawo bisan naa kas fraternity.” (Even if
you are a member of the fraternity, you are still an ordinary person.)
Commitment to Stay
1.“Kay dira naman ko nagsugod ako na lang taposon.” (Since I started it I will
finish it.)
2. “(Laughs) di ra di na ko mobalhin sir, dili na mobalhin ug lain sir, diha na
lang jud ko.” ((Laughs) I will not transfer sir, I will not transfer to other
groups. I will stick to them.)
3. “O sir, dili pud ko kasiguro ana nga tanan sir pareho anang sa uban sir, usa
ray mopahawa.” (Yes, sir, I’m not sure if all will leave like in other group,
maybe only one.)
4. “(Laughs) wala ra sir, naa man akong barkada, nya na close na mi sa usag-
usa. Kay ug mukuan ang usa, hawa ang tanan.” [(Laughs), nothing sir, my
friends are there, we became very close with each other. If one will transfer,
all will leave.]
5.“Wala man sir, katong sauna wala man toy ingon nga gubot sir.” (Everything
was alright sir, we did not get into trouble)
Rite of Passage
1. “Kuan ra to amo sir, bunal2, mao ra to sir.” (The hazing sir, that’s all)
2. “A dili na sir e. abi nako ang bunal gagmay ra sir ba… nag pakuan namo sir
kay dagko diay kaayo sir ba. Padayon na lang sir e kay nasugdan na gud.”
(No, Sir. All the while I thought the paddle was rather insignificant but during
the initiation it was huge. I cannot back out because it has started already.)
School Freeze
1. “Dako sir e, maayo na gud ta akong record dri sa city high, dayon na transfer
me sir sa Annex, nya ulihi na kaayo mi sa klase sir.” (My record in city high
39
was good, then I was transferred to Annex, then I was not able to cope with
the lessons.)
2. “Nalain sir, kay nabulag ko sa among mga barkada dri si, unya na balhin mi
sa wala kaayo miy kaila.” (I was separated with my “barkada-friends”, I was
transferred and do not know anyone.)
3. “Wala sir, sige rag ambak, gawas, dili mosulod.” (Nothing sir, I am always
jumping over the fence, going out, and skipping class.)
4. “Maulihi ka sa kuan sir, far out man kaayo to ilang leksyon didto.” (I was not
able to catch up with the lessons.)
5. “Wala sir. Niundang kog usa ka tuig sir. Atong niaging tuig moeskwela ta ko
galing didto man ko sa Dumaguete sir, tambay kog Dumaguete.nya karon sir
nieskwela kog balik sir. Magbinot an kono. Mao ra man gyapon.” (Nothing
sir. I quit school for a year. Last year I planned to enroll in Dumaguete sir, I
stayed in Dumaguete. Now I returned to school. Trying to be good but I am
still the same.)
Physical and Mental Exploitation

1. “Ang makuan lang nako sir kon mointra sila sir dili na kinahanglang nga
sudlan kay lain jud kaayo, ang pagsakit. Dili sila maparehas namo sir nga
bugbog sarado.” (The only thing I can say is, it is not necessary to join
because the paddling is not good. They will not experience being mauled like
me.)
2. “Bun og kaayo ang paa nimo sir ba, lain kaayo tanawon. Maayo gani amo sir
kay nanglagum ra ang uban kay naay juy mangliki.” (It was not pleasing to
see because I had bruises on my legs. I was just thankful that I only had black
spots on my legs not like others who had cuts.)
Textural Description for Participant 1
The themes to emerge for Participant 1 were curiosit, belongingness,
secret life, social responsibility, commitment to stay, rite of passage, school freeze, and
physical and mental exploitation.
Theme 1: Curiosity
Erickson’s theory on the psychosocial stages of human development is very clear
about the need for identity (Sigelman & Rider, 2009). At this stage, adolescents are in
search of an identity that will lead them to adulthood. Adolescents make a strong effort to
answer the question "Who am I?" Erikson notes the healthy resolution of earlier conflicts
can now serve as a foundation for the search for an identity. If the child overcomes earlier
40
conflicts they are prepared to search for identity. Teenagers nowadays want to go out of
the norms of the society. They wanted to explore and wander more on the unconventional
way of living. In the teenagers’ search for his role in society, he is driven to interact with
others. In these interactions, they are more exposed to positive and negative influences of
which they need the guidance of their parents. Curiosity, along with the related more
general field of intrinsic motivation, has been recognized as playing a part in a wide
range of human endeavour. Curiosity is a state commonly experienced by all people, and
there are some events which arouse curiosity in almost everyone. It is also a trait which is
much more typical of some people than others. So a magician might by clever
manipulation produce unexpected events which make most people curious. Where did
that come from? How did he do it? Such wondering illustrates the state of curiosity. The
trait which varies between people is seen in the way that some events will be seen by
some people as strange or peculiar while others will pass them by with little interest.
Some people are more likely than others to be in situations where strange or novel events
occur and when they occur they will be more likely to become the focus of attention.
Some might have gone out looking for them, or they might have been more sensitive to
those small discrepancies which attract attention (Beswick, 2000). Participant 1 noted
that, “Wala sir murag na invite ra man sir nga mo intra ana… mao to pagsulod nako
murag nausab akong pantan aw sir ba… sukad atong daghan nangamatay sir… basig
maabot pa na nako ba.” (None, sir. I was just like invited to join, then when I was in it
change my perspective… when there were more deaths, then it might happen to me.)
Based on his response, the reason why teenagers joined fraternity is fuelled by their need
to know what is happening inside the fraternity. They are very eager to find out what is in
41
store for them for being a fraternity member. What are the initiations rights and the
activities that fraternity men experience? As supported by the fifth level of Maslow’s
pyramid represents an individual’s need to know and understand. According to Maslow’s
hierarchy, this motivation cannot occur until the deficiency needs have been met to the
individual’s satisfaction (Martin and Joomis, 2007). Ferguson (2005) suggest that
adolescents are more prone to react with 'gut instinct' when they process emotions, but as
they mature into early adulthood, they are able to temper their instinctive 'gut reaction'
response with rational, reasoned responses," says Yurgelun-Todd. This gut instinct,
combined with raging hormones, peer pressure and the stresses of life--especially in these
times of terrorism and war--can equal some otherwise intelligent teens doing some stupid
stuff, including experimentation with drugs and alcohol, self-injuring such as cutting,
racing cars, playing chicken with traffic, unsafe sexual practices, acts of aggression or
violence, petty crimes such as theft, etc. (http://EzineArticles.com/86747). He was also
curious to what is it in the fraternity; “Kanang makuan sir unsa kasakit nang bunal sir.”
(I want to know how painful it is to be paddled.)
Theme 2: Belongingness
Human beings are social animals; they mature over a long period in dyadic, small
group, and in other group contexts. Thus, it is not surprising that a growing body of
evidence suggests that people are healthier and happier when they experience social
belonging. It appears that the friends of some participants have a strong influence why
they were involved in fraternity. Adolescents participate in a complex social
environment populated by many friendship groups, cliques, and crowds. The desire to
belong to a group may influence an adolescent's behavior well before he or she is actually
42
a member of the group (B. Newman, B. Lohman, P. Newman, 2012). He also added that,
“Kanang, pareho anang naa kay kinanglan makaduol dayon ka nila. Barkada nako sir.
Nasamot mig ka close sir” For example, you can always approach them. My friends and
I are closer than before). In part, this is attributed to the closeness of groups. “Kon kuan
sir makalisod naay motabang nimo, pahero anang makakita kag kontra sir, naa dayon
mosuporta nimo dri sa likod. Lain ra jud ang kanang tinuod nga barkada kay kon migo
migo ra kay tan awon ra ka kon mag kalisod na ka.” (There is always someone to help
me when I’m in need, when I have foes, there will be always somebody to support me.
Real friends are different. As for others, they will just look at you even if you’re in pain.)
A sense of group belonging is a psychological construct (Kiesner, Cardinu, Poulin, &
Bucci, 2002; Stone & Brown, 1999 cited in B. Newman, B. Lohman, P. Newman, 2012 ).
Adolescents participate in a complex social environment populated by many friendship
groups, cliques, and crowds. The desire to belong to a group may influence an
adolescent's behavior well before he or she is actually a member of the group. Individuals
may change their behavior in order to gain peer acceptance. Adolescents' peers are very
influential in terms of socialization (Anderson & Meyer, 2000; Jones & Crawford, 2006).
Peer influence begins early in life and increases with age (Anderson & Meyer; Dohnt &
Tiggemann, 2006). According to members, they join fraternities to find a second family
in school to make student life easier (Lorna, 2006).
Theme 3: Secret Life
The mystery of being a fraternity member was also stressed him, “Kuan sir,
murag naa man goy misteryo if ma member na ka sa frat sir, tungod kay murag kuan
gani sir… nang dili sya para sa tanan ba, gina initiate pa gani sir usa ka membro.”
43
(There is a mystery if you a member of a fraternity because it is not for everyone; before
you enter you are initiated.) This can be attributed to the clandestine nature of of
fraternity and its stealthy underground activites. Fraternities were often referred to as
“secret societies.” As these societies quickly spread to other campuses and the first
sorority emerged in 1831, Greek organizations consisted of a network of supporters, with
brothers and sisters vowing each other’s loyalty to the death (Glass, 2012). He also added
that, “Wala ra sir, trip ra sir.” (None sir, it was just a trip.)
Theme 4: Social Responsibility
Pablo sees it as a benefit to help others. They are actively participating in various
community events like relief operations and improvement of city parks. O’Donnell
(2009) argues that, despite negative stereotypes and news stories, fraternities can make a
positive contribution to campus life. He notes that fraternity friendships create lifelong
bonds between members, expose people to a variety of personality types because of the
necessary diversity in any group and offer real diversity in fraternities at his alma mater,
Dartmouth College. Cruz (2008) also included in his article that fraternity also made lot
of services every year like outreach program. They adopt a baranggay and help the
people there. They educate the children and give them goods. The fraternity, not unlike
any other human institution, encourages it members to make a commitment to something
outside themselves, such as participating in charity events, events to benefit the
homeless, raise money for the poor and commit themselves to learn about one another
(http://www.oppapers.com/essays/Positive-Aspects-Fraternities/1436). He said, “Wala
jud sir. Patabangon sa park.” (None sir. We assist in the park.) He added that,
44
“Ordinaryo ra man ka gyapon nga tawo bisan naa kas fraternity.” (Even if you are a
member of the fraternity, you are still an ordinary person.)
Theme 5: Commitment to Stay
In the course of the interview when asked about the reasons why Pablo stayed in
fraternity, he courageously said that he will stand up for his decision. He wants to prove
that his decision is right that is why he stayed in the group. A commitment is a public or
private decision to act. If we make a commitment, we often feel bound to follow through
on it, for fear of social rejection or simply due to the threat of cognitive dissonance. An
article that looks at a study by Cornell University, which found that most adolescents
make unwise choices after heavily weighing the pros and cons. They engage in high-risk
behavior because they think the benefits, such as immediate gratification or peer
acceptance, outweigh the risks (Whelan, 2007). Thefraternityadvisor.com added to keep
in mind though that after you are initiated you will have crossed the point of no return
and will not be able to start or join another fraternity. Baquilid (2010) emphasized that a
fraternity or sorority is a choice of lifestyle for a lifetime. Of all the participants’ only one
answered about standing to his decision to stay with the group. In addition, an
adolescent’s brain development is not complete. Often the last part of the brain to
develop is the frontal cortex, or the section of the brain that aids in decision-making and
impulse control. This may lead many teens—who are trying to learn a new world of
complex decisions—to make choices quickly or impulsively without a lot of critical
thought (Newby and Snyder, 2009). He shared, “Kay dira naman ko nagsugod ako na
lang taposon.” (Since I started it I will finish it.) He noted, “(Laughs) di ra di na ko
mobalhin sir, dili na mobalhin ug lain sir, diha na lang jud ko.” [(Laughs) I will not
45
transfer sir, I will not transfer to other groups. I will stick to them.] He also
added,“(Laughs) wala ra sir, naa man akong barkada, nya na close na mi sa usag-usa.
Kay ug mukuan ang usa, hawa ang tanan.” [(Laughs) Nothing, sir. My friends are there,
we became very close with each other. If one will transfer, all will leave.] He also added,
“Wala man sir, katong sauna wala man toy ingon nga gubot sir.” (Everything was
alright sir, we did not get into trouble).
Theme 6: Rite of Passage
The ritual ceremony is universally a huge secret and therefore is different for all
organizations (http://www.eduinreview.com/blog/2010/08/what-happens-at-fraternity-
and-sorority-initiation-ceremonies/). Rites are valuable and are significant to the future of
organizations, however, far too many of its members are incorporating hazing practices
into the organization’s rites of passage (Lee-Olukoya, 2011). He said, “Kuan ra to amo
sir, bunal2, mao ra to sir.” (The hazing sir, that’s all). He added, “A dili na sir e. abi
nako ang bunal gagmay ra sir ba… nag pakuan namo sir kay dagko diay kaayo sir ba.
Padayon na lang sir e kay nasugdan na gud.” (No, sir. All the while I thought the paddle
was rather insignificant in size but during the initiation it was huge. I cannot back out
because it has started already.)
Theme 7: School Freeze
He stressed that his education has suffered because of his involvement in
fraternity. As a result, he is now an irregular fourth year student because he stopped
schooling when he was advised to transfer to a different school. Fraternities can also have
a negative effect when it comes to a member's academic standing. Most fraternities
require a significant time commitment in terms of helping with fundraisers, parties or

46
other social events. There are usually weekly meetings to attend and other responsibilities
a student must shoulder in addition to his academic course load. Some college students
can find it hard to juggle classes and fraternity responsibilities. The pressure from his
fraternity will often cause him to sacrifice his grades in order to put the fraternity first.
(The Bad Effects of Fraternities|eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_8602217_bad-
effectsfraternities.html #ixzz1rXzNPYLx). He said “Dako sir e, maayo na gud ta akong
record dri sa city high, dayon na transfer me sir sa Annex, nya ulihi na kaayo mi sa klase
sir. (My record in city high was good, then I was transferred to Annex, then I was not
able to cope with the lessons). He stressed, “Nalain sir, kay nabulag ko sa among mga
barkada dri si, unya na balhin mi sa wala kaayo miy kaila. (I was separated with my
“barkada-friends”, I was transferred and do not know anyone). When he was transferred
he said, Wala sir, sige rag ambak, gawas, dili mosulod (Nothing sir, I am always jumping
over the fence, go out, and always skipping class). And he stressed, “Maulihi ka sa kuan
sir, far out man kaayo to ilang leksyon didto.” (I was not able to catch up with the
lessons.) He added that, “Wala sir. Niundang kog usa ka tuig sir. Atong niaging tuig
moeskwela ta ko galing didto man ko sa Dumaguete sir, tambay kog Dumaguete.nya
karon sir nieskwela kog balik sir. Magbinot an kono. Mao ra man gyapon.” (Nothing sir.
I quit school for a year. Last year I planned to enroll in Dumaguete sir, I stayed in
Dumaguete. Now I returned to school. Trying to be good but I am still the same.)
Theme 8: Physical and Mental Exploitation
It appears that his learnings on his participation to fraternity are negative. He
condemned the act done to them in initiation like the hazing and paddling. They are dwelt
more to the then physical pain they suffered during their initiation. Hazing has been a
47
perpetual problem all over the world. It may be unknown to many that there are 1.5
million high school students in the US alone that are hazed every year. In college, 55%
experience this. US statistics in February 12, 2010 show that there are 96 deaths due to
school fraternity and sorority hazing, not counting those in clubs, organizations or teams.
Of these deaths, 82% involves the intake of alcohol (Gueco, 2012). But the two most
common negative aspects of joining a fraternity are brutal hazing and abuse drinking
(http:// www.oppapers.com/ essays/ Positive- And- Negative- Aspects -Of- Fraternities/
484180). Hazing is the harassment of new members as a rite of passage, by giving them
meaningless, difficult, dangerous or humiliating tasks to perform, exposing them to
ridicule or playing practical jokes on them. Major causes of hazing are students wanting a
sense of belonging in a big college campus. It has always been seen as a secretive campus
act when it comes to fraternity. Participant 1 had a desire to advocate against joining of
teenagers in fraternities. He stressed, “Ang makuan lang nako sir kon mointra sila sir dili
na kinahanglang nga sudlan kay lain jud kaayo, ang pagsakit. Dili sila maparehas namo
sir nga bugbog sarado.” (The only thing I can say is, it is not necessary to join because
the paddling is not good. They will not experience being mauled like me.) He added,
“Bun og kaayo ang paa nimo sir ba, lain kaayo tanawon. Maayo gani amo sir kay
nanglagum ra ang uban kay naay juy mangliki.” (It was not pleasing to see because I had
bruises on my legs. I was just thankful that I only had black spots on my legs not like
others who had cuts.)

48
Participant 2 (“Christian”)
“Christian” is 16 years old and is a senior student of JBCMHS-Main. He lives
with his mother, his father and his younger sister. He is a typical “bugoy” student who
always plays basketball on the school grounds even during class hours. He sports a clean
hair cut and has ear piercing with a stainless steel earring. He has a strong personality and
would not back out from any fight.
During the interview, he seems to be curious why I was studying on fraternity and
feared that I might squeal his name to the school authorities. After explaining my purpose
he readily answered all the questions. He shares:
1. “Kuan, curious lang ko sir, kay unsa nang ginaingon nila nga bunal sir ba.”
(I was just curious about the paddle sir.)
2. “Kuan sir ba..kanang ganahan gani nako ma experience ang ginaingon nila
nga bunal. Ganahan ko nga I test if maka survive ba ko, makaya ba nako ang
paddle sir.” (I would like to experience how it is to be paddled. I like to test
myself if I will be able to survive the paddle.)
3. “Kanang ingnon kono kang isog.” (So that they can say that I am brave.)
4. “Kanang, dili mahadlok sir ba, bisag unsay himuon nimo, bisag unsay ilabay
nimo di ka muatras. Unsay hamon nimo di ka mu atras.” (So that I will not be
afraid of anything that will be done to me, anything they might throw at me, I
will not surrender, whatever trials there may be, I will not backout.)
5. “Kuan, community servicing sir sa kanang katong, kamiy nanabang atong sa
Guihulngan. Dayon kato pong dira sa tourism sir, katong hanghakot mig unsa
gani kuan sir ba kanang mga balay2 gani canopy.” (We do community
servicing, we helped during the Guihulngan relief operations. And also we
helped in assembling the canopy during activities of the tourism office.)
6. “Kuan pud sir, protection ug kanang connections sir ba. Walay manghilabot
nako sir kay naa man koy grupo. Kanang connections kuan sir, kanang dili
kag maglisod kay naa man kay kaila.” (Protection and connections sir.
Nobody will bully me because I have a group. For connections, I will not have
a hard time because I have friends.)
7. “Kuan sir, dili man gud ka basta basta ka gawas. Naa man gud goodbye pads
sir. Usa ka makagawas if nakadawat na ka ug bunal sir. Unya basig dili nako
maka survive anang ilang pag bunal nako sir ba?” (You cannot easily quit.
49
There are goodbye pads. Before you quit, you are to undergo paddling sir.
What if I will not be able to survive that paddling sir?)
8. “Kanang kuan sir, kanang mas sadya man sa frat sir kay kon naay activities
pagusto man mi usa among buhaton. Basta kay amo rang ampingan ang
ngalan sa frat.” (It is more fun in fraternity. When we conduct activities, we
are free but we are also bound to protect the name of our fraternity.)
9. “Kanang, mag outing mi sir, barkada ra kaayo ba, naay inom gamay, kanta
kanta. Kuan pud sir for example, naay initiation, mao na pud ang time nga
mobunal sa bag ong niapil. So mao na na ang time nga makabalos mi sa
pagbunal namo.” (When we go on outing, we drink a little and sing. Also in
the initiations, those are our time to paddle the neophytes it’s the time for
reprisal.)
10. Kanang kuan sir, abi example magtapok-tapok mo naa man juy uban, sa
fraternity namo, ambot lang wala ko kabalo sa uban sir, kay ang uban
magtapok-tapok magsuyop..ana sir ba, inom, sa amoa kuan man basta… dili
gani ka kasulod sa among grupo ug hubog ka sir, high ka sa drugs dili pud ka
pwede. Nya kon membro na ka sa grupo nya mabal an ka nga ga suyop naa
man kay D.A. {During gathering sir, there are some, I just don’t know with
others, they do drugs, drinking. But in our fraternity, you are not allowed to
joined the group when you are drunk, drugged is not also allowed. Then if you
are a member then somebody finds out that you are taking drugs, you will be
given D.A. (Disciplinary Action).]
11. Aaa…. Kanang inom2 sir if makatapok mi…. dili man gud malikayan labi na
ug daghan nami… (Aaa… Drinking session cannot be avoided when we get
together.)
12. Kanang Away, usahay… Mga suya2 gud kay ambot, pero panalagsa ra man
nang away namo kay istoryahon man dayon sa among kuan sir presidente ug
kinsa nga, kinsa among kontra istoryahon, pra masettle dayon sir ba, dili
modako ang gubot. (Sometimes we get into fights. We sometimes get into
fights because of envy. We rarely encounter fights because our president
settles our differences with our foe.)
13. Away, inom, dili gyod malikayan ang drugs sa kuan, marijuana. (Fights,
drinking-these cannot be avoided and drugs too, marijuana.)
14. O sir bisag ginadili na sir, naa man dyapon makalusot sir ba. Hulaton ra nga
wala na ang leader dayon mao nay pag gawas sa inom, hit hit. (Even it is not
allowed still others waits until the leader is out and then they will start
drinking, and doing drugs.)
15. “Dili lalim sir e, sakit kaayo, dason maayo ra sa una una, active kaayo sa una
una nya pagkaulihitan nagmahay gani ko nganong nisulod ko. Kay kon dili,
kay kon mugawas pud ka, naa poy goodbye pads, nya sakit raba kaayo.” (It is
50
not that easy. It hurts, at first it was very active but now I have regrets why I
joined. Because when you quit they will give you goodbye pads, and that
really would hurt.)
16. “Kuan sir, kay dili naman pud kaayo active ang grupo dayon dili pud ka
basta2 kahawa kay nakabalo naka sa ilang mga sekreto. Dayon if mo quit ka,
naa pa kay goodbye pads nga dawaton.” (The group is not that active sir, then
you cannot just leave the group, you will have to undergo goodbye pads.)
17. “Dili kay kon, maayo ra diri sa Canlaon kay kaila ra, perog didto kas ubang
lugar kay basahan man mog by laws ana sir, kay ang kanang naa sa by laws
naa naman na didto ug, kay nakabalo naman ka ug unsa ang kuan sa grupo
gud. Dili jud ka kagawas.” (It’s okat here in Canlaon because everyone know
everyone, but in other places, they read the bylaws to you, because it is
already there, and you already know the secrets of the group. There is no way
out.)
Themes of Participant 2
Curiosity
1. “Kuan, curious lang ko sir, kay unsa nang ginaingon nila nga bunal sir ba.”
(I was just curious about the paddle sir.)
paddle sir.” (I would like to experience on how it is to be paddled. I like to
test myself if I will be able to survive the paddle.)
paddle sir.” (I would like to experience on how it is to be paddled. I like to
test myself if I will be able to survive the paddling.)
4. “Kanang ingnon kono kang isog.” (So that they can say that I am brave.)
5. “Kanang, dili mahadlok sir ba, bisag unsay himuon nimo, bisag unsay ilabay
nimo di ka muatras. Unsay hamon nimo di ka mu atras.” (That I will not be
afraid of anything that will be done to me, anything they might throw at me, I
will not surrender, whatever trials there may be, I will not back out.)
Social Responsibilty
1. “Kuan, community servicing sir sa kanang katong, kamiy nanabang atong sa
Guihulngan. Dayon kato pong dira sa tourism sir, katong hanghakot mig unsa
gani kuan sir ba kanang mga balay2 gani canopy.” (We do community
51
servicing, we helped during the Guihulngan relief operations. And also we

helped in assembling the canopy during activities of the tourism office.)
Personal Gain
1. “Kuan pud sir, protection ug kanang connections sir ba. Walay manghilabot
nako sir kay naa man koy grupo. Kanang connections kuan sir, kanang dili
kag maglisod kay naa man kay kaila.” (Protection and connections sir.
Nobody will bully me because I have a group. For connections, I will not have
a hard time because I have friends.)
No easy way out

1. “Kuan sir, dili man gud ka basta basta ka gawas. Naa man gud goodbye pads
sir. Usa ka makagawas if nakadawat na ka ug bunal sir. Unya basig dili nako
maka survive anang ilang pag bunal nako sir ba?” (You cannot easily quit.
There are goodbye pads. Before you quit, you are to undergo paddling sir.
What if I will not be able to survive that paddling sir?)
2. “Kuan sir, kay dili naman pud kaayo active ang grupo dayon dili pud ka
basta2 kahawa kay nakabalo naka sa ilang mga sekreto. Dayon if mo quit ka,
naa pa kay goodbye pads nga dawaton.” (The group is not that active sir, then
you cannot just leave the group, you will have to undergo goodbye pads.)
3. “Dili kay kon, maayo ra diri sa Canlaon kay kaila ra, perog didto kas ubang
lugar kay basahan man mog by laws ana sir, kay ang kanang naa sa by laws
naa naman na didto ug, kay nakabalo naman ka ug unsa ang kuan sa grupo
gud. Dili jud ka kagawas.” (It’s okay here in Canlaon because everyone know
everyone, but in other places, they read the bylaws to you, because it is
already there, and you already know the secrets of the group. There is no way
out.)
Fun filled Activities

1. “Kanang kuan sir, kanang mas sadya man sa frat sir kay kon naay activities
pagusto man mi usa among buhaton. Basta kay amo rang ampingan ang ngalan
sa frat.” (It is more fun in fraternity, when we conduct activities, we are free but
we are also bound to protect then name of our fraternity.)
2. “Kanang, mag outing mi sir, barkada ra kaayo ba, naay inom gamay, kanta
kanta. Kuan pud sir for example, naay initiation, mao na pud ang time nga
mobunal sa bag ong niapil. So mao na na ang time nga makabalos mi sa
pagbunal namo.” (When we go outing, we drink a little, and sing. Also in the
initiations, that are our time to paddle the neophytes, it’s the time for reprisal.)
3. “Kanang kuan sir, abi example magtapok-tapok mo naa man juy uban, sa
fraternity namo, ambot lang wala ko kabalo sa uban sir, kay ang uban magtapok-
52
tapok magsuyop..ana sir ba, inom, sa amoa kuan man basta… dili gani ka
kasulod sa among grupo ug hubog ka sir, high ka sa drugs dili pud ka pwede.
Nya kon membro na ka sa grupo nya mabal an ka nga ga suyop naa man kay
D.A.” (During gathering sir, there are some, I just don’t know with others, they do
drugs, drinking. But in our fraternity, you are not allowed to joined the group
when you are drunk, drugged is not also allowed. Then if you are a member then
somebody finds out that you are taking drugs, you will be given D.A.
(Disciplinary Action).

1. “Aaa…. Kanang inom2 sir if makatapok mi…. dili man gud malikayan labi na
ug daghan nami…” (Aaa… Drinking session cannot be avoided when we get
together.)
2. “Kanang Away, usahay… Mga suya2 gud kay ambot, pero panalagsa ra man
modako ang gubot.” (Sometimes we get into fights. We sometimes get into
3. “Away, inom, dili gyod malikayan ang drugs sa kuan, marijuana.” (Fights,
drinking, cannot be avoided and drugs also, marijuana.)
4. “Sir bisag ginadili na sir, naa man dyapon makalusot sir ba. Hulaton ra nga
wala na ang leader dayon mao nay pag gawas sa inom, hit hit.” (Even it is
not allowed still others waits until the leader is out and then they will start
drinking, and doing drugs.)
5. “Dili lalim sir e, sakit kaayo, dason maayo ra sa una una, active kaayo sa
una una nya pagkaulihitan nagmahay gani ko nganong nisulod ko. Kay kon
dili, kay kon mugawas pud ka, naa poy goodbye pads, nya sakit raba kaayo.”
(It is not that easy, it hurts, at first it was very active but now I have regrets
why I joined. Because when you quit they will give you goodbye pads, and
that really would hurt.)
Violence
1. “Kanang Away, usahay… Mga suya2 gud kay ambot, pero panalagsa ra man
modako ang gubot.” (Sometimes we get into fights.We sometimes get into
53
Textural Description for Participant 2
The themes that emerged from Participant 2 were curiosity, social responsibility,
protection, no easy way out, fun filled activities and physical and mental exploitation.
Theme 1: Curiosity
He said he was curious on what is it inside the fraternity. During adolescence,
children are exploring their independence and developing a sense of self (Cherry, 2012).
It appears that even though most of the participants live with their parents they are not
that open about their problems. They find it easy to open up with their peers rather than
their parents. Gerrard (2007) found that teenagers’ decisions are often not planned or
even premeditated. Instead, they're reactive to "risk-conducive" circumstances that
usually involve friends and peers. Participant 2 noted that, “Kuan, curious lang ko sir,
kay unsa nang ginaingon nila nga bunal sir ba.” (I was just curious about the paddle sir.)
Curiosity, and the related more general field of intrinsic motivation, has been recognized
as playing a part in a wide range of human endeavour. Curiosity is a state commonly
experienced by all people, and there are some events which arouse curiosity in almost
everyone, it is also a trait which is much more typical of some people than others. So a
magician might by clever manipulation produce unexpected events which make most
people curious. Where did that come from? How did he do it? Such wondering illustrates
the state of curiosity. The trait which varies between people is seen in the way that some
events will be seen by some people as strange or peculiar while others will pass them by
with little interest. Some people are more likely than others to be in situations where
strange or novel events occur and when they occur they will be more likely to become the
focus of attention. Some might have gone out looking for them, or they might have been
54
more sensitive to those small discrepancies which attract attention (Beswick, 2000) He
added, “Kuan sir ba..kanang ganahan gani nako ma experience ang ginaingon nila nga
bunal. Ganahan ko nga I test if maka survive ba ko, makaya ba nako ang paddle sir.” (I
would like to experience how it is to be paddled. I like to test myself if I will be able to
survive the paddle.) Gerrard (2007) established that teenagers’ decisions are motivated
behavior, or they've thought about how much they want to do it. It's because they just do
it. They wanted to put themselves to the limit. He stressed, “Kanang ingnon kono kang
isog.” (So that they can say that I am brave). In part this can be attributed to the
characteristics of other groups) “Kanang, dili mahadlok sir ba, bisag unsay himuon nimo,
bisag unsay ilabay nimo di ka muatras. Unsay hamon nimo di ka mu atras.” (That I will
not be afraid of anything that will be done to me, anything they might throw to me, I will
not surrender, whatever trials there may be I will not back out.)
He said, “Kuan, community servicing sir sa kanang katong, kamiy nanabang
atong sa Guihulngan. Dayon kato pong dira sa tourism sir, katong hanghakot mig unsa
gani kuan sir ba kanang mga balay2 gani canopy.” (We do community servicing, we
helped during the Guihulngan relief operations. And also we helped in assembling the
canopy during activities of the tourism office). O’Donnell (2009) argues that, despite
negative stereotypes and news stories, fraternities can make a positive contribution to
campus life. He notes that fraternity friendships create lifelong bonds between members,
expose people to a variety of personality types because of the necessary diversity in any
group and offer real diversity in fraternities at his alma mater, Dartmouth College. Cruz
(2008) also included in his article that fraternity also made lot of services every year like
55
outreach program. They adopt a baranggay and help the people there. They educate the
children and give them goods. The fraternity, not unlike any other human institution,
encourages it members to make a commitment to something outside themselves, such as
participating in charity events, events to benefit the homeless, raise money for the poor
and commit themselves to learn about one another
(http://www.oppapers.com/essays/Positive-Aspects-Fraternities/1436). Here are some of
locally organize social/civic response of fraternities; Inspired by the thought of a Noble
Betan, Brod Eugenio "Gene" Gatmaitan, CLSU -71'B/Western USA and the persuasive
efforts of the National BetaPhil, the University of Negros Occidental - Recoletos (UNO-
R) Beta Sigma Fraternity had its first feeding mission activity at the parish of San
Sebastian Cathedral on the 30th day of May, where Flores de Mayo, a Catholic festival, is
annually held. In celebration of the founding anniversary of Beta Sigma Fraternity on
July 14, 2008, the Beta Sigma Fraternity and the Sigma Beta Sorority in Bacolod City,
together with the Brgy. 33 Sanguniang Kabataan (SK) officials headed by Brgy. 33 SK
chairman hon. Nico Alipato (Son of Brod Andy Alipato UNO-R '76), had their joint
Medical and Feeding Mission last July 11, 2008 (http://www.betasigmafraternity.net/
UNO-R.htm#UNORMED).
Theme 3: Personal Gain
He answered that his membership in fraternities can be beneficial to his life. He
was able to make connections, thus establishing a network in which they are sheltered
from any danger. He will a have a group that will help him in his time of need and would
back him up when he is in trouble. A sense of belongingness, self identity, status and
emotional support are some positive consequences associated with gang membership
56
based on the studies conducted by Chesney-Lind et al. 1995; Clark, 1992; Virgil, 1988
(cited in Omizo et al. 2000). The gang provides a source of support, solidarity and social
connection, and thus fulfils some of the functions of a close-knit family unit (White,
2009). The benefits of being in a fraternity are that you are brothers, living with a
common direction, Gummig said in Gonzalez 2009. As stated by Tristan Zantua, joining
fraternities is like joining a powerful group in a university. Even though certain risks
have been identified, people are still very eager to join to gain power and protection”
(Melendez, et al 2012). Arceelee (2010) added that the frat also has the duty to protect its
members. He summarized it broadly saying “Kuan pud sir, protection ug kanang
connections sir ba. Walay manghilabot nako sir kay naa man koy grupo. Kanang
connections kuan sir, kanang dili kag maglisod kay naa man kay kaila.” (Protection and
connections sir. Nobody will bully me because I have a group. For connections, I will not
have a hard time because I have friends). The size of your fraternity nationwide will
determine the scope of your potential connections. Because fraternity brothers are sworn
to look out for each other, these connections can come in handy when it's time to apply to
graduate school or land a job (Sparks, 2011).
Theme 4: No Easy Way Out
It appears that he stayed in fraternity because of fear. He is afraid that members
will hurt him if he will quit. We have too frequently remained silent while renegade
members have openly and defiantly harassed, humiliated and committed physical
violence on men seeking membership into Kappa Alpha Psi," Robert L. Harris, national
grand pole march, or president, of Kappa Alpha Psi recently wrote in a confidential
bulletin to members (Applebome, 2001).Any member who disobeys orders will be

57
considered a traitor and will instantly expelled and become an enemy of the frat
(Arceelee, 2010). He said, “Kuan sir, dili man gud ka basta basta ka gawas. Naa man
gud goodbye pads sir. Usa ka makagawas if nakadawat na ka ug bunal sir. Unya basig
dili nako maka survive anang ilang pag bunal nako sir ba?” (You cannot easily quit.
There are goodbye pads. Before you quit, you are to undergo paddling sir. What if I will
not be able to survive that paddling sir?). He also added, “Kuan sir, kay dili naman pud
kaayo active ang grupo dayon dili pud ka basta2 kahawa kay nakabalo naka sa ilang
mga sekreto. Dayon if mo quit ka, naa pa kay goodbye pads nga dawaton.” (The group
is not that active sir, then you cannot just leave the group, you will have to undergo
goodbye pads) and “Dili kay kon, maayo ra diri sa Canlaon kay kaila ra, perog didto kas
ubang lugar kay basahan man mog by laws ana sir, kay ang kanang naa sa by laws naa
naman na didto ug, kay nakabalo naman ka ug unsa ang kuan sa grupo gud. Dili jud ka
kagawas.” (It’s ok here in Canlaon because everyone know everyone, but in other places,
they read the bylaws to you, because it is already there, and you already know the secrets
of the group. There is no way out).
Theme 5: Fun Filled Activites
As fraternity member, this participant found the groups activites enjoyable.
Partying is fun for people of all ages, teenagers in particular like to party. This may
include clubbing, attending a concert or festival, having a party at home or going to a
party at a friend’s house. They are also involved in the initiation of new members in
which they see it as an opportunity to seek revenge since because they are sometimes
asked to be in the instigation procedure. Some of the students were join some fraternity
because of their attractive and fun-filled activities. Fraternities provide their members
58
with many social benefits, helping men meet new people and develop strong friendships
both inside and outside of individual chapters (http://www.willamette.edu/
dept/osa/greek/ fraternities/index.html). Fraternities are all about ritual and acceptance
and what current individuals were required to do for acceptance is amplified for future
pledges (http://www.university-college.net/articles/fraternity-hazing.php). “Kanang kuan
sir, kanang mas sadya man sa frat sir kay kon naay activities pagusto man mi usa among
buhaton. Basta kay amo rang ampingan ang ngalan sa frat.” (It is more fun in fraternity.
When we conduct activities, we are free but we are also bound to protect the name of our
fraternity). He also added, “Kanang, mag outing mi sir, barkada ra kaayo ba, naay inom
gamay, kanta kanta. Kuan pud sir for example, naay initiation, mao na pud ang time nga
mobunal sa bag ong niapil. So mao na na ang time nga makabalos mi sa pagbunal
namo.” (When we go on outings, we drink a little, and sing. Also in the initiations, those
are our time to paddle the neophytes, it’s the time for reprisal.) He also stressed, Kanang
kuan sir, abi example magtapok-tapok mo naa man juy uban, sa fraternity namo, ambot
lang wala ko kabalo sa uban sir, kay ang uban magtapok-tapok magsuyop..ana sir ba,
inom, sa amoa kuan man basta… dili gani ka kasulod sa among grupo ug hubog ka sir,
high ka sa drugs dili pud ka pwede. Nya kon membro na ka sa grupo nya mabal an ka
nga ga suyop naa man kay D.A. (During gathering sir, there are some, I just don’t know
with others, they do drugs, drinking. But in our fraternity, you are not allowed to join the
group when you are drunk or drugged. Then if you are a member then somebody finds
out that you are taking drugs, you will be given D.A. (Disciplinary Action).
59
Theme 6: Physical and mental exploitation.
He pointed out some of the negative effects of being a fraternity member. He said,
“Aaa…. Kanang inom2 sir if makatapok mi…. dili man gud malikayan labi na ug daghan
nami…” (Aaa… Drinking session cannot be avoided when we get together.) It also
appears that alcohol and drugs are inevitable during fraternity gathering based on his
statement. It is clearly stated that even though drugs and alcohol is not allowed in their
fraternity, deviant members still find way to sneak in this prohibited substances. As
teenagers seeking their place in the society they are curious on these substances. With the
availability of these in fraternity meetings chances are they will be forced or enticed to
try it. The present study provides strong evidence that higher rates of substance use
among US college students who join fraternities and sororities predate their college
attendance, and that membership in a fraternity or sorority is associated with considerably
greater than average increases in heavy episodic drinking and annual marijuana use
during college (http://www.termpaperwarehouse.com/essay-on/Negative-Effects-Of-
Fraternity/ 61026). He affirmed, “Away, inom, dili gyod malikayan ang drugs sa kuan,
marijuana.” (Fights, drinking these cannot be avoided and drugs too, marijuana.) He
added, “O sir bisag ginadili na sir, naa man dyapon makalusot sir ba. Hulaton ra nga
wala na ang leader dayon mao nay pag gawas sa inom, hit hit. (Even it is not allowed
still others waits until the leader is out and then they will start drinking, and doing drugs.)
The present study provides strong evidence that higher rates of substance use among US
college students who join fraternities and sororities predate their college attendance, and
that membership in a fraternity or sorority is associated with considerably greater than
average increases in heavy episodic drinking and annual marijuana use during college
60
(http://www.termpaperwarehouse.com/essay-on/Negative-Effects-Of-Fraternity/ 61026).
Borsari and Carey (1999) cited in DeSimone (2007), for instance, offer three ways in
which joining a fraternity could raise alcohol consumption. First, fraternity members
might feel social pressure to drink in order to feel accepted into the group. Second,
extrapolating peer drinking rates from those observed among fellow members would
yield systematic overestimation, which already occurs among college students. Third,
fraternity houses make alcohol easily available to members, regardless of age, and are
shielded from others who might disapprove of heavy drinking. Nurius et al (2000) also
added that Alcohol consumption was reported as being an important part of socializing
for most respondents (even though most of them were underage).
He condemned the act done to them in initiation like hazing and paddling. He
dwelt more to the physical pain they suffered during initiation. He said, “Dili lalim sir e,
sakit kaayo, dason maayo ra sa una una, active kaayo sa una una nya pagkaulihitan
nagmahay gani ko nganong nisulod ko. Kay kon dili, kay kon mugawas pud ka, naa poy
goodbye pads, nya sakit raba kaayo.” (It is not that easy. It hurts, at first it was very
active but now I have regrets why I joined. Because when you quit they will give you
goodbye pads, and that really would hurt.) Hazing has been a perpetual problem all over
the world. It may be unknown to many that there are 1.5 million high school students in
the US alone that are hazed every year. In college, 55% experience this. US statistics in
February 12, 2010 show that there are 96 deaths due to school fraternity and sorority
hazing, not counting those in clubs, organizations or teams. Of these deaths, 82%
involves the intake of alcohol (Gueco, 2012).

61
Theme 7: Violence
Sometimes his group gets involved in violence. It is noted that because of the
presence of these groups and the quest for distinction, frat and gang wars emerge.
Comacket et al (2010) made mention on the increase in the number of aboriginal street
gang members who indulge in gang wars and shooting. Sparks (2011) added that
fraternities spend a great deal of their time socializing, mixing with other groups and
spending time drinking, which creates the perfect backdrop for fights and social drama.
He also stressed, “Kanang Away, usahay… Mga suya2 gud kay ambot, pero panalagsa
ra man nang away namo kay istoryahon man dayon sa among kuan sir presidente ug
kinsa nga, kinsa among kontra istoryahon, pra masettle dayon sir ba, dili modako ang
gubot.” (Sometimes we get into fights.We sometimes get into fights because of envy. We
rarely encounter fights because our president settles our differences with our foe).
Participant 3 (“Gio”)
“Gio” is 15 years old. He has three younger brothers. He is a son of banker and
farm financier. By his looks you can clearly say that he comes from a well-off family. His
skin is fairly white and he wears crisp white polo and black pants. When I first met him,
he is an introvert boy. His hair is dyed blond and styled like most teenagers.
1. “Kay ga computer sir ba kita ko nga daghan diay ginaubra ng AKHRO nga
makatabang sir ba, madonate og dugo, magpakaon sa indigent people sir
ba… mao to nga na encourage ko.” (I was in a computer shop when I noticed
that AKHRO has many activities like donating blood, feeding program to the
indigent people, and it encouraged me sir.)
2. “Brotherhood, brotherhood sir.”
3. “Tabanganay sir ba, mura gani ug pamilya, or igsoon… ganahan ko sir nga
ma daghan ako amigo sir ba.” (Helping each other like a family or brothers, I
also like to have more friends.)
62
4. “Aaa….. para mausob sir ba nga mahimo ko nga responsable nga tawo sir”
(So that I will change my attitude, I will become a responsible person sir.)
5. “Dili ko sir responsable. Dili ko kuan sir, kanang dili ko motabang sa balay.”
(I was not responsible, I am not helping in the household chores.)
6. Kuan sir public service sir.
7. Manglimpyo sa palibot sir ba, mga vandals sir ba… kami poy mamintal ana
sir. (Cleaning the surroundings, like painting the vandals of other groups.)
8. “Ma responsable ka nga tawo sir.” (I will be a responsible person sir.)
9. “Kuan sir, naay makatabang nako sa akong pag eskwela. Kuan sir naa koy
mapangutan-an sa mga lesksyon, sa mga kauban namo sir ba nga nakahuman
na ug take ana nga mga subject. Naay makatabang nako sir if naa koy wala
nasabtan sa mga leksyon.” (There will be somebody who can help me in my
studies. I have somebody to ask about our lessons-fraternity members who
were able to take that subject. Somebody can teach me the lessons I was not
able to comprehend.)
10. “Murag nakatabang sir sa responsibility nako sir, nadaghan kog kaila sir.”
(It helped in my responsibility, I gained more friends.)
11. “ Mga classmate sir nga naay Tito nga membro pud ana nga fraternity, a
classmate diay nimo na maayo bya nang bataana kay naay moubra mutabang
pud siya.” (My classmates who happened to have an Uncle who is a member
of my fraternity, will say “A he is your classmate, he is a good boy, and if we
have something to do he would help us.)
12. “Sauna sir sige kog ka late sir. Karon talagsa na lang ma late sir kay, abi
paadto ko sa eskwalahan sir nya naay makakita nako sir ba nga membro ana
nga frat sir, pasakyon ko sir ba, mo nang ok na sir ba. Naa nay makadul-ong
nako sir.” (Before, I am always late, sir now I seldom go to school late, sir
when I’m on my way to school and a fraternity member happens to see me, he
will offer me a ride to school, that why its okay now. Somebody offers a ride.)
13. “Murag nakatabang sa pag respetar sa ginikanan sir ba. Sauna sir ba wala
pa ko kaapil ani sir abi sugoon ko ni mama suguon ko ni papa murag wala ra
gid sako sir ba. Nya karon sir ba nga nakaapil ko sir ba, maayo kaayo sir ba
mutabang na kos ubra sa balay.” (It somewhat helped me respect my parents
sir. Before, when I was not yet a member, when my parents ask me to
something for them, I never follow. Now that I am with this group, I help in
the household chores.)
14. “Kuan sir, kinang yamuhat sir ba, pasi-aw. Sa mga kauban ba. Ka brad sir.
Imbis na seryos na kaayo ang inyong topic sir, nya mayamohat kaayo sir kay
dili na mapungan, kay maanad na sir ba.” (We are always making fund with
each other. Even during serious topics most are still making fun out of it sir,
and some get used to it.)
63
15. “Lain kaayo paminawon sir kay ang imong kaistorya serious na kaayo unya
ikaw sige kag yamuhat, murag mainsulto sila.” (I felt bad because even
though the person you are talking to is serious, you are still not taking him
seriously.)
16. “Wala sir, wala man sir, Wala jud, (Long silence) kanang kuan sir, murag
mahadlok ang tawo sa imoha sir ba. Moana nga Ayaw nag kuana bay o, kay
membro na cya sa ana nga fraternity.” [Nothing sir, nothing really sir (long
silence), others might be fearful of you sir. They would say that you should
not mess with that guy,he is a member of a fraternity.]
17. “ Kay himbis nga, Dili ka pa tuga2 mang… makig friend ka sir ba. Moana
nga ayaw kay membro na siya sa fraternity.” (You will have a hard time in
making friends because they have a negative impression on fraternity
members.)
18. “For example naa kay ka brad nga naay sala sir ba, asta ikaw madalahig ka
sir, kay siya membro man siya nya ikaw membro pud ka”. (For example a
brother happens to commit mistake/crime, others may think that you are
involved.)
19. “Dili ka ma legalized sir ba kon underage ka sir ba.” (You will not be
legally accepted if you are underaged.)
20. “Kuan sir public service sir. Makatabang sir ba.” (Public service sir. So that
we can help sir.)
21. “Naay maayo sir ba. Ga funding sir ba, mga ka brad sir ba nga kihanglan
tabang tabangan na sir.” (There is something good. We raise funds for our
brothers who needs help sir.)
22. “Manglimpyo sa palibot sir ba, mga vandals sir ba… kami poy mamintal ana
sir.” (We clean the surroundings sir, like the vandals sir… we painted it sir.)
23. “Respect ang mga tigulang sir ba.” (Respecting the elderly sir.)
24. “Mutabang sir ba dili kay nangayo silag tabang nimo kon di kay imoha jud
sir ba.” (Helping not because they asked for it but helping because it is
innate.)
25. “Tabanganay sa tawo sir ba. Dili ka maghulat sa imong kuyog nga moingon
nga ubraha ni ubraha na… mutabang ka nila sir.” (Helping other people sir.
You will not wait for someone to tell you to work on something, you will help
them.)
64
1. “Kay ga computer sir ba kita ko nga daghan diay ginaubra ng AKHRO nga
makatabang sir ba, madonate og dugo, magpakaon sa indigent people sir
ba… mao to nga na encourage ko.” (I was in a computer shop when I noticed
that AKHRO has many activities like donating blood, feeding program to the
indigent people, and it encouraged me sir.)
2. “Kuan sir public service sir.”
3. Manglimpyo sa palibot sir ba, mga vandals sir ba… kami poy mamintal ana
sir. (Cleaning the surroundings, like painting the vandals of other groups.)
5. “Kuan sir public service sir. Makatabang sir ba.” (Public service sir. So that
we can help sir.)
6. “Naay maayo sir ba. Ga funding sir ba, mga ka brad sir ba nga kihanglan
tabang tabangan na sir.” (There is something good. We raise funds for our
brothers who needs help sir.)
7. “Manglimpyo sa palibot sir ba, mga vandals sir ba… kami poy mamintal ana
8. “Mutabang sir ba dili kay nangayo silag tabang nimo kon di kay imoha jud
sir ba.” (Helping not because they asked for it but helping because it is
innate.)
9. “Tabanganay sa tawo sir ba. Dili ka maghulat sa imong kuyog nga moingon
nga ubraha ni ubraha na… mutabang ka nila sir.” (Helping other people sir.
You will not wait for someone to tell you to work on something, you will
them.)
Belongingnes
1. “Brotherhood, brotherhood sir.”
2. “Tabanganay sir ba, mura gani ug pamilya, or igsoon… ganahan ko sir nga
ma daghan ako amigo sir ba.” (Helping each other like a family or brothers, I
also like to have more friends.)
Personal gain
1. “Aaa….. para mausob sir ba nga mahimo ko nga responsable nga tawo sir”
(So that I will change my attitude, I will become a responsible person sir.)
2. “Dili ko sir responsable. Dili ko kuan sir, kanang dili ko motabang sa balay.”
3. “Ma responsable ka nga tawo sir.” (I will be a responsible person sir.)
4. “Murag nakatabang sa pag respetar sa ginikanan sir ba. Sauna sir ba wala
pa ko kaapil ani sir abi sugoon ko ni mama suguon ko ni papa murag wala ra
gid sako sir ba. Nya karon sir ba nga nakaapil ko sir ba, maayo kaayo sir ba
mutabang na kos ubra sa balay.” (It somewhat helped me respect my parents
sir. Before, when I was not yet a member, when my parents ask me to
65
something for them, I never follow. Now that I am with this group, I help in
the household chores.)
6. “Mga classmate sir nga naay Tito nga membro pud ana nga fraternity, a
classmate diay nimo na maayo bya nang bataana kay naay moubra mutabang
pud siya.” (My classmates who happened to have an Uncle who is a member
of my fraternity, will say “A he is your classmate, he is a good boy, and if we
have something to do he would help us.)
7. “Respect ang mga tigulang sir ba.” (Respecting the elderly sir.)
8. “Sauna sir sige kog ka late sir. Karon talagsa na lang ma late sir kay, abi
paadto ko sa eskwalahan sir nya naay makakita nako sir ba nga membro ana
nga frat sir, pasakyon ko sir ba, mo nang ok na sir ba. Naa nay makadul-ong
nako sir.” (Before, I am always late sir, now I seldom go to school late sir,
when I’m on my way to school and a fraternity member happens to see me, he
will then offer me a ride to school, that why its ok now. Somebody offers a
ride.)
9. “Kuan sir, naay makatabang nako sa akong pag eskwela. Kuan sir naa koy
mapangutan-an sa mga lesksyon, sa mga kauban namo sir ba nga nakahuman
na ug take ana nga mga subject. Naay makatabang nako sir if naa koy wala
nasabtan sa mga leksyon.” (There will be somebody who can help me in my
studies. I have somebody to ask about our lessons, fraternity members who
were able to take that subject. Somebody can teach me in the lessons I was
not able to comprehend.)
No one is taking me seriously

1. “Kuan sir, kinang yamuhat sir ba, pasi-aw. Sa mga kauban ba. Ka brad sir.
Imbis na seryos na kaayo ang inyong topic sir, nya mayamohat kaayo sir kay
dili na mapungan, kay maanad na sir ba.” (We are always making fund with
each other. Even during serious topics most are still making fun out of it sir,
and some get used to it.)
2. “Lain kaayo paminawon sir kay ang imong kaistorya serious na kaayo unya
ikaw sige kag yamuhat, murag mainsulto sila.” (I felt bad because even
though the person you are talking to is serious, you are still not taking him
seriously.)
Social Stigma
3. “Wala sir, wala man sir, Wala jud, (Long silence) kanang kuan sir, murag
mahadlok ang tawo sa imoha sir ba. Moana nga Ayaw nag kuana bay o, kay
membro na cya sa ana nga fraternity.” (Nothing sir, nothing really sir (long
silence), others might be fearful of you sir. They would say that you should
not mess with that guy,he is a member of a fraternity.)
4. “Kay himbis nga, Dili ka pa tuga2 mang… makig friend ka sir ba. Moana nga
ayaw kay membro na siya sa fraternity.” (You will have a hard time in
making friends because they have a negative impression on fraternity
members.)
66
5. “For example naa kay ka brad nga naay sala sir ba, asta ikaw madalahig ka
sir, kay siya membro man siya nya ikaw membro pud ka.” (For example a
brother happens to commit mistake/crime, others may think that you are
involved.)
6. “Dili ka ma legalized sir ba kon underage ka sir ba.” (You will not be legally
accepted if you are underage.)
Textural Description of Participant 3
The themes that emerge were social responsibility, belongingness,
personal gain, no easy way out and social stigma.
It comes into view that even with the negative image of fraternity there are still
good about fraternity. He said,” Kay ga computer sir ba kita ko nga daghan diay
ginaubra ng AKHRO nga makatabang sir ba, madonate og dugo, magpakaon sa indigent
people sir ba… mao to nga na encourage ko.” (I was in a computer shop when I noticed
that AKHRO has many activities like donating blood, feeding program to the indigent
people, and it encouraged me sir.) Fraternities can also be a venue in assisting others in
need. It was stressed by the participant was able to see something good out of the group
that made him decide to join. Altruism has been thought of as an ego defence, a form of
sublimation in which a person copes with his anxiety by stepping outside himself and
helping others. By focusing on the needs of others, people in altruistic vocations such as
medicine or teaching may be able to permanently push their needs into the background,
and so never have to address or even to acknowledge them (Burton, 2012). One
important foundation of the fraternity experience is serving the community. Fraternities
contribute to the community in many ways, two of which are philanthropies and
community service. Community service is visible all across Salem as fraternities
participate in various community outreach programs. Fraternities also plan philanthropies

67
where they raise money for specific charities and organizations
(http://www.willamette.edu/dept/osa /greek/fraternities/index.html). An important and
often overlooked aspect of fraternity life is dedication to serving the community. All
fraternity organizations support their own philanthropic project. These range from
working with senior citizens, the homeless, or at-risk youth and various other charitable
organizations. These projects help build moral character among participants as well as
teach them to assume their civic responsibility as they become the leaders of our
communities. Last year alone, the Fraternity System donated over 5,000 man hours and
provided monetary assistance to philanthropic events in Knoxville and the East
Tennessee area (http://fraternity.utk.edu/life.html).
Fraternities can also be a venue to be of assistance to others. They perceive it as
an occasion to grow and develop their skills and abilities. It was stressed that participants
were able to see something good out of the group and it made them decide to join. It
seems that they wanted to spend their spare time to more productive activities like public
service even in their own little way.
Altruism has been thought of as an ego defence, a form of sublimation in which a
person copes with his anxiety by stepping outside himself and helping others. By
focusing on the needs of others, people in altruistic vocations such as medicine or
teaching may be able to permanently push their needs into the background, and so never
have to address or even to acknowledge them (Burton, 2012 ) to the community in many
ways, two of which are philanthropies and community service. Community service is
visible all across Salem as fraternities participate in various community outre. One
important foundation of the fraternity experience is serving the community. Fraternities

68
contribute ach programs. Fraternities also plan philanthropies where they raise money for
specific charities and organizations (http://www.willamette.edu/dept/osa
/greek/fraternities/index.html).
Participant said that they do public service. He shared, “Kuan sir public service
sir. Kuan sir public service sir. Makatabang sir ba.” (Public service sir. So that we can
help sir.) One of the many advantages of being part of the community is time spent
helping others in need. The commitment found in members can be seen in the enthusiasm
they have in giving back to the community in Community service, also known as
philanthropies. Philanthropies are projects and events organized by groups or individuals
to benefit the surrounding communities (http://www.ship.edu/Greeks/Benefits_of_
Membership/). He added, “Manglimpyo sa palibot sir ba, mga vandals sir ba… kami poy
mamintal ana sir.” (Cleaning the surroundings, like painting the vandals of other
groups.) The fraternity, not unlike any other human institution, encourages its members
to make a commitment to something outside themselves, such as participating in charity
events, events to benefit the homeless, raise money for the poor and commit themselves
to learn about one another. As a student makes these commitments to a fraternity, the
fraternity provides a structure within where these commitments can be acted out, in such
things as rituals of pledging and initiation (http://www.oppapers.com/). He shared, “Naay
maayo sir ba. Ga funding sir ba, mga ka brad sir ba nga kihanglan tabang tabangan na
sir.” (There is something good. We raise funds for our brothers who needs help sir.) He
added, “Manglimpyo sa palibot sir ba, mga vandals sir ba… kami poy mamintal ana
69
An important and often overlooked aspect of fraternity life is dedication to
serving the community. All fraternity organizations support their own philanthropic
project. These range from working with senior citizens, the homeless, or at-risk youth and
various other charitable organizations. These projects help build moral character among
participants as well as teach them to assume their civic responsibility as they become the
leaders of our communities. Last year alone, the Fraternity System donated over 5,000
man hours and provided monetary assistance to philanthropic events in Knoxville and the
East Tennessee area (http://fraternity.utk.edu/life.html). The opportunities to serve are
endless. Through involvement in the Fraternity System young men learn to develop their
most important quality, the ability to give of themselves. Beta Sigma Fraternity awarded
new homes to the needy families of Hagonoy, Davao del Sur. The Beta Sigma Village
also hosted regular medical missions by dedicated Beta Sigma volunteers and will
continue to help and build for the betterment of our society
(http://www.betasigmafraternity.net/gkbetasigma_gb1.htm#homesawarded). Here are
some of locally organize social/civic response of fraternities; Inspired by the thought of a
Noble Betan, Brod Eugenio "Gene" Gatmaitan, CLSU -71'B/Western USA and the
persuasive efforts of the National BetaPhil, the University of Negros Occidental -
Recoletos (UNO-R) Beta Sigma Fraternity had its first feeding mission activity at the
parish of San Sebastian Cathedral on the 30th day of May, where Flores de Mayo, a
Catholic festival, is annually held. In celebration of the founding anniversary of Beta
Sigma Fraternity on July 14, 2008, the Beta Sigma Fraternity and the Sigma Beta
Sorority in Bacolod City, together with the Brgy. 33 Sanguniang Kabataan (SK) officials
headed by Brgy. 33 SK chairman hon. Nico Alipato (Son of Brod Andy Alipato UNO-R
70
'76), had their joint Medical and Feeding Mission last July 11, 2008
(http://www.betasigmafraternity.net/UNO-R.htm#UNORMED).
He learned to extend help to others. He shared, “Mutabang sir ba dili kay
nangayo silag tabang nimo kon di kay imoha jud sir ba.” (Helping not because they
asked for it but helping because it is innate.) He added, “Tabanganay sa tawo sir ba. Dili
ka maghulat sa imong kuyog nga moingon nga ubraha ni ubraha na… mutabang ka nila
sir.” (Helping other people sir. You will not wait for someone to tell you to work on
something, you will help them.)
He wants to belong, “Brotherhood, brotherhood sir.”He added, “Tabanganay sir
ba, mura gani ug pamilya, or igsoon… ganahan ko sir nga ma daghan ako amigo sir
ba.” (Helping each other like a family or brothers, I also like to have more friends.)
Human beings are social animals; they mature over a long period in dyadic, small group,
and other group contexts. Thus, it is not surprising that a growing body of evidence
suggests that people are healthier and happier when they experience social belonging. It
appears that the friends of some participants have a strong influence why they were
involved in fraternity. Adolescents participate in a complex social environment populated
by many friendship groups, cliques, and crowds. The desire to belong to a group may
influence an adolescent's behavior well before he or she is actually a member of the
group (B. Newman, B. Lohman, P. Newman, 2012).
Theme 3: Personal Gain.
In the course of the interview it also emerged that the participant wanted to
improve himself and that he is getting something positive from activities of the group.
71
He joined the group to act as training grounds for him to develop his personality. He
wanted to change his attitudes to a better person. They perceive it as an occasion to grow
and develop their skills and abilities. The way where your life can be influenced
positively by fraternity according to NAIFC is to be a better person (Baquilid, 2010).•
This means wanting to be a leader, to work effectively and to confront inappropriate
behavior, to learn to interact socially, and to be a responsible person among other things.
Another way is to form lifelong friendship (Baquilid, 2010). He wants also to change
through joining frat, “Aaa….. para mausob sir ba nga mahimo ko nga responsable nga
tawo sir” (So that I will change my attitude, I will become a responsible person sir.) He
stressed, “Dili ko sir responsable. Dili ko kuan sir, kanang dili ko motabang sa balay.”
Gio sees more of the personal gain in joining fraternity. He benefits from it, like
the improvement of himself. He was able to establish connections and nurture that to his
own advantage. It serves as his training grounds to become a responsible person and it
instil to him the value of respect. The way where your life can be influenced positively
according to North-American Interfraternity Council (NAIFC) is to be a better person
(Baquilid, 2010).• This means wanting to be a leader, to work effectively and to
confront inappropriate behavior, to learn to interact socially, and to be a responsible
person among other things. Here are some of his responses:
“Ma responsable ka nga tawo sir.” (I will be a responsible person sir.)
“Murag nakatabang sa pag respetar sa ginikanan sir ba. Sauna sir ba wala pa ko
kaapil ani sir abi sugoon ko ni mama suguon ko ni papa murag wala ra gid sako sir ba.
Nya karon sir ba nga nakaapil ko sir ba, maayo kaayo sir ba mutabang na kos ubra sa
72
balay.” (It somewhat helped me respect my parents sir. Before, when I was not yet a
member, when my parents ask me to something for them, I never follow. Now that I am
with this group, I help in the household chores.)
“Murag nakatabang sir sa responsibility nako sir, nadaghan kog kaila sir.” (It
helped in my responsibility, I gained more friends.)
“Respect ang mga tigulang sir ba.” (Respecting the elderly sir.)
He also added that “Mga classmate sir nga naay Tito nga membro pud ana nga
fraternity, a classmate diay nimo na maayo bya nang bataana kay naay moubra
mutabang pud siya.” (My classmates who happened to have an Uncle who is a member
of my fraternity, will say “A he is your classmate, he is a good boy, and if we have
something to do he would help us.) He also added that “Sauna sir sige kog ka late sir.
Karon talagsa na lang ma late sir kay, abi paadto ko sa eskwalahan sir nya naay
makakita nako sir ba nga membro ana nga frat sir, pasakyon ko sir ba, mo nang ok na sir
ba. Naa nay makadul-ong nako sir.” (Before, I am always late sir, now I seldom go to
school late sir, when I’m on my way to school and a fraternity member happens to see
me, he will offer me a ride to school, that why its okay now. Somebody offers a ride.)
Joining a brotherhood or sisterhood means making friends for life. As those friends head
out into the world after graduation, networking can be the key to a successful job in tight
economy (http://www.citynetmagazine.com/lifestyle/fraternities-sororities-benefits.htm).
It also helped in his schooling. He added, “Kuan sir, naay makatabang nako sa akong
pag eskwela. Kuan sir naa koy mapangutan-an sa mga lesksyon, sa mga kauban namo sir
ba nga nakahuman na ug take ana nga mga subject. Naay makatabang nako sir if naa
koy wala nasabtan sa mga leksyon.” (There will be somebody who can help me in my
73
studies. I have somebody to ask about our lessons-fraternity members who were able to
take that subject. Somebody can teach me the lessons I was not able to comprehend.)
Theme 4: No One is Taking Me Seriously
Their interaction inside the organization was full of tall stories and most of the
time they are joking around. He often had a time in dealing with them. Teens feel that
they aren’t being taken seriously in their families either. Teenagers are often “joking
around, so even when they are serious, adults think they are joking (Arthur, 2012). He
shared, “Kuan sir, kinang yamuhat sir ba, pasi-aw. Sa mga kauban ba. Ka brad sir.
Imbis na seryos na kaayo ang inyong topic sir, nya mayamohat kaayo sir kay dili na
mapungan, kay maanad na sir ba.” (We are always making fun with each other. Even
during serious topics most are still making fun out of it sir, and some get used to it.) He
added “Lain kaayo paminawon sir kay ang imong kaistorya serious na kaayo unya ikaw
sige kag yamuhat, murag mainsulto sila.” (I felt bad because even though the person you
are talking to is serious, you are still not taking him seriously.)
Theme 5: Social Stigma
The participant was aware of the associated stigma being a member of such
organization. He felt bad about it and was affected as such that he feels that others see
him as bad guy. He was also hesitant to tell the effects of being a fraternity member,
“Wala sir, wala man sir, Wala jud, (Long silence) kanang kuan sir, murag mahadlok ang
tawo sa imoha sir ba. Moana nga Ayaw nag kuana bay o, kay membro na cya sa ana nga
fraternity.” (Nothing sir, nothing really sir (long silence), others might be fearful of you
sir. They would say that you should not mess with that guy,he is a member of a
fraternity.) Before pledging a fraternity, you'll need to face the fact that fraternity
74
members are sometimes looked down upon, thought of as party boys who had to pay
membership dues to make friends. Not only will those outside the fraternity life have
preconceived notions of your fraternity, but members of other Greek societies will also
assume they know something about you based on the reputation of your fraternity
(Sparks, 2011). The crime committed by a fraternity brother is also thrown at them. He
also added “Kay himbis nga, Dili ka pa tuga2 mang… makig friend ka sir ba. Moana nga
ayaw kay membro na siya sa fraternity.” (You will have a hard time in making friends
because they have a negative impression on fraternity members.) and “For example naa
kay ka brad nga naay sala sir ba, asta ikaw madalahig ka sir, kay siya membro man siya
nya ikaw membro pud ka.” (For example a brother happens to commit mistake/crime,
others may think that you are involved.) The popular opinion of fraternities is fuelled by
the common stereotype and the misconception that the Hollywood industry portrays.
Hollywood has always produced an exaggeration of what goes on in the fraternity life.
The stereotype of fraternities was made even stronger when the film “Animal House”
came out (http://www.exampleessays.com/viewpaper/69433.html). Fraternities and
sororities get an admittedly bad rap in the pop cultural eye: they're always depicted as
dated, insipid cliques that spend all their time and energy focused on beer pong (for the
men) or catfights (for the women). And it's true that some of the students that pledge turn
out to be total nutjobs who want to embrace those stereotypes and get lost in the mindless
partying (http://www.bachelorsdegree.org/2010/09/16/the-advantages-of-fraternity-and-
sorority-life/). He also stressed that, “Dili ka ma legalized sir ba kon underage ka sir
ba.” (You will not be legally accepted if you are underaged.)

75
Participant 4 (“Carol”)
“Carol” is an animated 16-year-old girl in her senior year. She lives with her
father, mother and 2 other siblings.
During the interview she walks into my office for the scheduled interview and in
her navy blue and with blouse uniform. She has multiple ear piercings and has long hair.
She speaks fast and sometimes would think that I was able to understand her.
1. “Kanang ra man to gud, naapil man gud akong ngalan, ana sila, nag storya
storya man sila didto, nya magtambayan man ko dira, niana tong bakol nga
nya unsa man nakaano na mo, pila na man mo kabuok, unsa diay na clan?
Niana ko sir ba, ana sila dili uy. Nya kana si Bernadette ni text man na sya
nako, nga if mosulod ba ko? Unsay mosulod?.... sa Bloods gud, ingon ko nga
mao diay nay grupo ninyo diay, mao nang magkuyog kuyog mo? Nya moapil
ka? Wala bitaw paddle..first 10 wala daw paddle mao tong nisugot na lang
pud ko… mao to sabay2 ko nilag ano sir, mag tapok2.”(My name was just
included, they said, they were talking about it there, and I used to hang out
there. Someone said, where you able to recruit, how many. I asked what is it, a
clan? And they answered no. Then Bernadeth texted me asking if I would like
to join I asked where. She answered, in the Bloods. I told her, so that’s your
group, and you’re always hanging out together. She asked me again, so you
want to join? No paddle for the first 10. With that I said yes. Then I hang out
with them.)
2. “Sa ground sir. First time gud to nako kuyog nilag meeting2… tapos pag abot
nako niana cla nga pagkahapon daw naa daw mang hazing… kuyog ta ha.
Kon dli ko mokuyog sir ba ila kong hulgaon sir ba nga padulan kno ko nila ug
kadina mao to nga nakulbaan na lang pud ko. Paabot namo didto kulbaan ko
sir e. murag naa man gud mahitabo, mao to sir e, ang mga laki gi pang
blindfold nila pero kami layo ra.” (In the school ground, it was my first time
to attend the meeting, then they said that on that afternoon they will conduct
hazing, and I was invited to join them. They threatened me that they will hit
me with chains if I will not go. I was affected and nervous. When we arrived
there, I felt nervous sir, as if there is something that will happen. That’s it, the
boys were blindfolded and we were from afar.)
3. “Kuan sir naa man pud didto akong barkada” (All my friends are there)
4. “dayon gi hulga2 man pud mi sa uban nga membro na dili napwede ka hawa.
Kay ug mo hawa ko for example naa pa man kay tumanon nga, for example
76
sir ba mo ana ko nga mo quit ko naa koy dawaton nga murag paddle, bali
bunalan ko nila sir usa ko maka hawa ana nga frat.” (And then we were
threatened by some of the members, that we are not allowed to quit. Because
if we quit, we are to undergo paddling. When we quit they will hit us with a
paddle before we can leave the frat.)
5. “Katong pag sulod2 ko ana, tapos murag na ano ko sir ba, naulaw ko sa
akong pamilya nga nahitabo, kay akong parents ga ubra maayo para maka
eskwela mi, unya nga sulod2 ko ana.” (When I joined the group, I feel
ashamed to my family with what had happened, to my parents who are
working very hard just to send us to school.)
6. “Ni kuyog2 ko nila. Nahadlok ko nga basig tripan ko nila sir ba. Kanang mag
laag2 ko magabi e, wala ta kabalo.” (I joined them. I am afraid that they
might do ill things to me when I am out at night.)
7. “Basi tripan kos akong kuyog sir ba…. Ila kong hilabtan if mangahubog na
mi…. Di gani sir ila kong pakuanon ug drugs.” (They might do ill things to
me, when we are drunk and they might let me try drugs.)
8. “Kay usahay sir mag inom na mi if mag tapok mi. ambot lang pud sa drugs
kay wala man pud ko ko witness ana.” (Sometimes we drink during our get-
together, I just do not know about drugs, so far I was not able to witness.)
9. “Murag madaot ang image gani, kapila na gud na gina remind ni maam gud
nga bawal jud nga ano masulod sulod sa fraternity, pero nagtuman jud mi.”
(It tarnished the image of the school, we were always reminded by the
teachers that fraternities are not allowed in school but we insisted.)
10. “Murag lain na ang panlantaw sa akong parents sir ba. Nausob tanan sir ba,
nya maglaag ko sir ba murag wala nay salig.” (My parents change their
attitudes towards me. When I’m out with my friends, I think they lost their
trust in me.)
11. “Wala man koy nakuha ato sir, kay mao ra pud to ang pagkuyog nako.”
(Nothing, because that was just the only time I joined them.)
12. “Wala juy kaayuhan sir, puro ra bisyo akong makat unan didto, mao tong wa
na ko nikuyog nila.” (I didn’t get anything good from it sir, I will just learn
many vices in the fraternity, so I decided not to be with them.)
13. Nakuan nako sir, na realize nako nga dili jud maayo ang pag intra ug
fraternity. Nakadugang pa sa ihinuon sa akong problema sir. (I realized that
its not beneficial to join any fraternity. It only added to my problems.)
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Accidentally and Incidentally Hooked

1. “Kanang ra man to gud, naapil man gud akong ngalan, ana sila, nag storya
storya man sila didto, nya magtambayan man ko dira, niana tong bakol nga
nya unsa man nakaano na mo, pila na man mo kabuok, unsa diay na clan?
Niana ko sir ba, ana sila dili uy. Nya kana si Bernadette ni text man na sya
nako, nga if mosulod ba ko? Unsay mosulod?.... sa Bloods gud, ingon ko nga
mao diay nay grupo ninyo diay, mao nang magkuyog kuyog mo? Nya moapil
ka? Wala bitaw paddle..first 10 wala daw paddle mao tong nisugot na lang
pud ko… mao to sabay2 ko nilag ano sir, mag tapok2.”(My name was just
included, they said, they were talking about it there, and I used to hang out
there. Someone said, where you able to recruit, how many. I asked what is it, a
clan. And they answered no. Then Bernadeth texted me asking if I would like
to join? I asked where. She answered, in the Bloods. I told her, so that’s your
group, and you’re always hanging out together. She asked me again, so you
want to join? No paddle for the first 10. With that I said yes. Then I hang out
with them.)
2. “Sa ground sir. First time gud to nako kuyog nilag meeting2… tapos pag abot
nako niana cla nga pagkahapon daw naa daw mang hazing… kuyog ta ha.
Kon dli ko mokuyog sir ba ila kong hulgaon sir ba nga padulan kno ko nila ug
kadina mao to nga nakulbaan na lang pud ko. Paabot namo didto kulbaan ko
sir e. murag naa man gud mahitabo, mao to sir e, ang mga laki gi pang
blindfold nila pero kami layo ra.” (In the school ground, it was my first time
to attend the meeting, then they said that on that afternoon they will conduct
hazing, and I was invited to join them. They threatened me that they will hit
me with chains if I will not go. I was affected and nervous. When we arrived
there, I felt nervous sir, as if there is something that will happen. That’s it, the
boys were blindfolded and we were from afar.)
Belongingness
1. “Kuan sir naa man pud didto akong barkada.” (All my friends are there)
No Easy Way out

1. “dayon gi hulga2 man pud mi sa uban nga membro na dili napwede ka hawa.
Kay ug mo hawa ko for example naa pa man kay tumanon nga, for example
sir ba mo ana ko nga mo quit ko naa koy dawaton nga murag paddle, bali
bunalan ko nila sir usa ko maka hawa ana nga frat.” (And then we were
threatened by some of the members, that we are not allowed to quit. Because
if we quit, we are to undergo paddling. When we quit they will hit us with a
paddle before we can leave the frat.)
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2. “Ni kuyog2 ko nila. Nahadlok ko nga basig tripan ko nila sir ba. Kanang mag
laag2 ko magabi e, wala ta kabalo.” (I joined them. I am afraid that they
might do ill things to me when I am out at night.)
3. “Basi tripan kos akong kuyog sir ba…. Ila kong hilabtan if mangahubog na
mi…. Di gani sir ila kong pakuanon ug drugs”. (They might do ill things to
me, when we are drunk and they might let me try drugs.)

1. Katong pag sulod2 ko ana, tapos murag na ano ko sir ba, naulaw ko sa akong
pamilya nga nahitabo, kay akong parents ga ubra maayo para maka eskwela
mi, unya nga sulod2 ko ana. (When I joined the group, I feel ashamed to my
family with what had happened, to my parents who are working very hard just
to send us to school.)
2. Kay usahay sir mag inom na mi if mag tapok mi. ambot lang pud sa drugs kay
wala man pud ko ko witness ana. (Sometimes we drink during our get-
together, I just do not know about drugs, so far I was not able to witness.)
3. Wala juy kaayuhan sir, puro ra bisyo akong makat unan didto, mao tong wa
na ko nikuyog nila.” (I didn’t get anything good sir, i will just learn many
vices in fraternity, so I decided not to be with them.)
Social Stigma
1. Murag madaot ang image gani, kapila na gud na gina remind ni maam gud
nga bawal jud nga ano masulod sulod sa fraternity, pero nagtuman jud mi. (It
tarnished the image of the school, we were always reminded by the teachers
that fraternities are not allowed in school but we insisted.)
2. Murag lain na ang panlantaw sa akong parents sir ba. Nausob tanan sir ba,
nya maglaag ko sir ba murag wala nay salig. (My parents change their
attitudes towards me. When I’m out with my friends, I think they lost their
trust in me.)
No benefits in joining fraternity (Empty Promises)

1. “Wala man koy nakuha ato sir, kay mao ra pud to ang pagkuyog nako.”
(Nothing, because that was just the only time I joined them.)
2. “Wala juy kaayuhan sir, puro ra bisyo akong makat unan didto, mao tong wa
na ko nikuyog nila.” (I didn’t get anything good from it sir, I will just learn
many vices in the fraternity, so I decided not to be with them.)
3. Nakuan nako sir, na realize nako nga dili jud maayo ang pag intra ug
fraternity. Nakadugang pa sa ihinuon sa akong problema sir. (I realized that
its not beneficial to join any fraternity. It only added to my problems.)
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The themes that emerge from participant 4 were accidentally and incidentally
hooked, belongingness, no easy way out, physical and mental exploitation, and no
benefits (empty promises).
Theme 1: Accidentally and Incidentally Hooked
While most have more serious reasons why they decided to join a fraternity, a
number of respondents stated that they entered a fraternity by chance. They were blinded
of the true purpose of the organization and they were trapped because they were not
allowed to back out. Thefraternityadvisor 2012, stated to keep in mind though that after
you are initiated you have crossed the point of no return and will not be able to start or
join another fraternity. In Visayan Daily Star 2011, Nuwer detailed that the victim, whose
name the police withheld, was invited by a fellow teenager Thursday last week to meet
his friends. The victim agreed, not knowing that it would be an initial meeting with the
alleged members of the fraternity called the “Tau Gamma Phi”, Bolivar said. She shared,
“Kanang ra man to gud, naapil man gud akong ngalan, ana sila, nag storya storya man
sila didto, nya magtambayan man ko dira, niana tong bakol nga nya unsa man nakaano
na mo, pila na man mo kabuok, unsa diay na clan? Niana ko sir ba, ana sila dili uy. Nya
kana si Bernadette ni text man na sya nako, nga if mosulod ba ko? Unsay mosulod?.... sa
Bloods gud, ingon ko nga mao diay nay grupo ninyo diay, mao nang magkuyog kuyog
mo? Nya moapil ka? Wala bitaw paddle… first 10 wala daw paddle mao tong nisugot na
lang pud ko… mao to sabay2 ko nilag ano sir, mag tapok2.”(My name was just included,
they said, they were talking about it there, and I used to hang out there. Someone said,
where you able to recruit, how many? I asked what is it, a clan? And they answered no.
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Then Bernadeth texted me asking if I would like to join? I asked where? She answered, in
the Bloods. I told her, so that’s your group, and your always hanging out together. She
asked me again, so you want to join? No paddle for the first 10. With that I said yes. Then
I hang out with them.) She also added, “Sa ground sir. First time gud to nako kuyog nilag
meeting2… tapos pag abot nako niana cla nga pagkahapon daw naa daw mang hazing…
kuyog ta ha. Kon dli ko mokuyog sir ba ila kong hulgaon sir ba nga padulan kno ko nila
ug kadina mao to nga nakulbaan na lang pud ko. Paabot namo didto kulbaan ko sir e.
murag naa man gud mahitabo, mao to sir e, ang mga laki gi pang blindfold nila pero
kami layo ra.” (In the school ground, it was my first time to attend the meeting, then they
said that on that afternoon they will conduct hazing, and I was invited to join them. They
threatened me that they will hit me with chains if I will not go. I was affected and
nervous. When we arrived there, I felt nervous sir, as if there is something that will
happen. That’s it, the boys were blindfolded and we were from afar.)
Human beings are social animals; they mature over a long period in dyadic, small
group, and other group contexts. Thus, it is not surprising that a growing body of
evidence suggests that people are healthier and happier when they experience social
belonging. It appears that the friends of some participants have a strong influence why
they were involved in fraternity. Adolescents participate in a complex social
a member of the group (B. Newman, B. Lohman, P. Newman, 2012). Her need to belong
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was a reason for this participant to join and stay in fraternity for a while. She said, “Kuan
sir naa man pud didto akong barkada” (All my friends are there).
She stayed as a member of fraternity because of fear. She was afraid that memers
will hurt her if she will quit. Because of intimidations given to her by leaders, she was
hesitant to leave the group. She shared, “dayon gi hulga2 man pud mi sa uban nga
membro na dili napwede ka hawa. Kay ug mo hawa ko for example naa pa man kay
tumanon nga, for example sir ba mo ana ko nga mo quit ko naa koy dawaton nga murag
paddle, bali bunalan ko nila sir usa ko maka hawa ana nga frat.” (And then we were
threatened by some of the members, that we are not allowed to quit. Because if we quit,
we are to undergo paddling. When we quit they will hit us with a paddle before we can
leave the frat.) Hazing, in both white and black fraternities, is one of the perennial ills of
college life. And while hazing at white fraternities - particularly in the form of alcohol
abuse -- remains an enormous problem, officers of black fraternities say that, four years
after violent hazing was banned, the practice persists to such a degree that it has become
a threat to their fraternities' existence (Applebome, 2001). Any member who disobeys
orders will be considered a traitor and will instantly expelled and become an enemy of
the frat (Arceelee, 2010). She also stressed: Ni kuyog2 ko nila. Nahadlok ko nga basig
tripan ko nila sir ba. Kanang mag laag2 ko magabi e, wala ta kabalo. (I joined them. I
am afraid that they might do ill things to me when I am out at night.) Basi tripan kos
akong kuyog sir ba…. Ila kong hilabtan if mangahubog na mi…. Di gani sir ila kong
pakuanon ug drugs. (They might do ill things to me, when we are drunk and they might
let me try drugs.)

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She shared, “Katong pag sulod2 ko ana, tapos murag na ano ko sir ba, naulaw ko
sa akong pamilya nga nahitabo, kay akong parents ga ubra maayo para maka eskwela
mi, unya nga sulod2 ko ana. (When I joined the group, I felt ashamed with my family to
what had happened, to my parents who are working very hard just to send us to school.)
It also appears that alcohol and drugs are inevitable during fraternity gathering. It is
clearly stated that even though drugs and alcohol is not allowed in their fraternity, deviant
members still find way to sneak in this prohibited substances. As teenagers seeking their
place in the society they are curious on these substances. With the availability of these in
fraternity meetings chances are they will be force or entice to try it. The present study
provides strong evidence that higher rates of substance use among US college students
who join fraternities and sororities predate their college attendance, and that membership
in a fraternity or sorority is associated with considerably greater than average increases in
heavy episodic drinking and annual marijuana use during college
83
for most respondents (even though most of them were underage). She also added, “Kay
usahay sir mag inom na mi if mag tapok mi. ambot lang pud sa drugs kay wala man pud
ko ko witness ana. (Sometimes we drink during our get-together, I just do not know about
drugs, so far I was not able to witness.) She also added, “Wala juy kaayuhan sir, puro ra
bisyo akong makat unan didto, mao tong wa na ko nikuyog nila.” (I didn’t get anything
good from it, sir I will just learn many vices in the fraternity, so I decided not to be with
them.) “Wala man koy nakuha ato sir, kay mao ra pud to ang pagkuyog nako.” (Nothing,
because that was just the only time I joined them.)
Theme 5: Social Stigm
Realizing how her membership affected school, “Carol” said: Murag madaot ang
image gani, kapila na gud na gina remind ni maam gud nga bawal jud nga ano masulod
sulod sa fraternity, pero nagtuman jud mi. (It tarnished the image of the school, we were
always reminded by the teachers that fraternities are not allowed in school but we
insisted.) In the public mind, fraternities have been equated with brawling street gangs,
regardless of whether they are based in UP or not. Joining a fraternity has become a game
of Russian roulette, and the names of those who have lost have fed media frenzies for
years (Llaneta, 2009). She also noted ‘Murag lain na ang panlantaw sa akong parents sir
ba. Nausob tanan sir ba, nya maglaag ko sir ba murag wala nay salig. (My parents
change their attitudes towards me. When I’m out with my friends, I think they lost their
trust in me.) Before pledging a fraternity, you'll need to face the fact that fraternity
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(Sparks, 2011). The first thing that enters my mind when I hear the word fraternities are
organizations of guys who spend their time drinking beers and having their social
gatherings (http://www.oppapers.com/essays/Positive-And-Negative-Aspects-Of-
Fraternities/484180).
Theme 6: Empty Promises
The participant also stressed that there is nothing good in joining fraternity, that
why anyone should not be on the rush to enter such organization. She said, “Wala man
koy nakuha ato sir, kay mao ra pud to ang pagkuyog nako.” (Nothing, because that was
just the only time I joined them.) She also added that joining such could be detrimental to
a persons’ future. As supported by a recent sociological study conducted by Richard
Arum of New York University and Josipa Roksa of the University of Virginia found that
students that joined the fraternity system showed a decrease in learning
(http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504744_162-20028739-10391703.html). She shared,
“Nakuan nako sir, na realize nako nga dili jud maayo ang pag intra ug fraternity.
Nakadugang pa sa ihinuon sa akong problema sir. (I realized that its not beneficial to
join any fraternity. It only added to my problems.)
Participant 5 (“Roland”)
“Roland” is a 16-year-old boy. He is the youngest son of a government
employee and a farmer. He spent his 10 years of basic education in a private-sectarian
high school. He is now in his tenth year and graduated last March 2012.
85
During the interview in the respondent’s house, “Roland” is very welcoming. It
was a Saturday morning and he was wearing a jersey and basketball shorts. “Roland” was
supposed to be out for a play but spared time for me to conduct the interview.
1. “Wala ra man ko ato, murag giblind mi sa among kuan ba nga lain na siya
nga community nga para ra sa eskwelahan ba. Wala diay mi kabalo na mao
diay na. ganahan ta mi ato mo tabang ba kay pra man kono sa eskwelahan.”
(We were misled by the ones who recruited us and told us that their
community is for the school. We did not know about it, we just wanted to help
because they said it was for the school.)
2. “Kuan na convince ko nila kay ang uban nakong mga amigo ila man pong gi
recruit man pud unya mo intra man sila kay abi nila pra sa kaayuhan.” (They
were able to convince me since most of my friends were also recruited and
wanted to join since it has a good purpose)
3. “Katong mga nag recruit, wala mi kabalo nga mao diay na ang mogawas
namo, mao diay na ang resulta.” (We did not know what would become of
us, that the result is not good.)
4. “Ni ana sila nga para kono ni sa eskwelahan, para malipay si sister, nituo ra
pud mi kay basig kuan ba makatabang mi ni sister. Mao to abi namog mao na
gyud toy kuan. Niapil pud ko kay halos tanang nakong amigo niintra man pud
. Didto naman gasugod, murag gi blind ra mi ba, mao tong mo back out tani
mi galing gihadlok man mi nila… Gibantaan gani mi. Bun-ogon, kuanon ba
sakiton… Nahadlok ko, mao nang wa ko nag saba nga mao nay nahitabo
namo kay basi tinud on nila ba. Ang katong mga nag recruit namo.” (They
told us that it is for the school, to make sister happy, We were convinced that
it might help sister. All the while we thought that’s it. I also joined because
most of my friend joined. We were blinded, I wanted to back out but they
threatened us. They said they will hurt us. I was frightened, that’s why I did
not tell anyone about what happened because they might make it happen.)
5. “Gibantaan gani mi. Bun-ogon, kuanon ba sakiton.” (We were threatened;
they told us that they will hurt us.)
6. “Nahadlok ko, mao nang wa ko nag saba nga mao nay nahitabo namo kay
basi tinud on nila ba.” (I was afraid; I kept what happened within me because
they might do it.)
7. “Wala. Wala gyud kay makuha ana, ila ra jud kang ilaron.” (None. You will
get nothing out of it. They will just give your false promises.)
8. “Kay wala pa man nadakpan, dili pud mi manugid kay ug manugid mi kuanon
man pud mi, ila ming gihadlok maaayo ba.” (Because we were not yet caught,
I didn’t tell anyone because they threatened us).
9. “Ila ming, gibahandan mi nga sakiton.” (They said they will hurt us. )
10. “Nahadlok pud ko kay basi ilang tinud-on ang ilang gisulti namo.” (I was
afraid; they might put it into action.)
11. “O pero ga bulag ra mi nila didto. Sige ra mig kuan sa music ba. Ga kuan
namig gitara namo didto ga practice sa banda namo.” (Yes, but we get
86
ourselves separated with the group. We just played our guitar and had our
band practice.)
12. “ Murag lain ilang panglantaw nako to, nya mura ganig nasuko. Ang ako ra
pud ato nga dili ra jud ko manugid or wala lang jud koy sugiran para dili sila
namakit nako.” (It seems that they got angry with us. As for me, will not tell
others so that they will not hurt me).
13. Dili gid na sya kakuanan kay naa may, usa ka mo kuan ana, bunalan pa gani
ka, dili siya maayo murag kuan kaayo ba buloyagon sa eskwelahan. (It’s not
good, because before you are accepted in the group, they need to hurt you.
There is no good in it because most of the members are troublemakers in
school.)
14. Mura ganig mga hambog kaayo sila… gasalig kay naay mulaban nila ba.
(They even become boastful knowing that there are people who will back
them up.)
15. “Dili jud ka mo apil ana dili pud ka mo pasagad sagad ug sulod ug ingon
ana.” (You should not be impulsive in joining groups like that.)
16. “Dili na siya maayo nga buluhaton ba. Kay buogon ka nila usa ka nila pa
intrahon sa ilang frat.” (It is not a good undertaking. Because they will hurt
you before you will become a member of your their frat.)
17. “ Dili jud na maayo ang fraternity, makaguba guid na sa mga plano sa imong
kinabuhi. Murag ga usik ra kag panahon kay dili man makatabang sa
pagpalambo sa akong kaugalingon. Sakit sa lawas ra to.” (Fraternity is not
good. It will just destroy your plans in your life. You are wasting your time
because it will not help in developing yourself. )
Accidentally and incidentally hooked

1. “Wala ra man ko ato, murag giblind mi sa among kuan ba nga lain na siya
nga community nga para ra sa eskwelahan ba. Wala diay mi kabalo na mao
diay na. ganahan ta mi ato mo tabang ba kay pra man kono sa eskwelahan.”
(We were misled by the ones who recruited us and told us that their
community is for the school. We did not know about it, we just wanted to help
because they said it was for the school.)
2. “Kuan na convince ko nila kay ang uban nakong mga amigo ila man pong gi
recruit man pud unya mo intra man sila kay abi nila pra sa kaayuhan.” (They
were able to convince me since most of my friends were also recruited and
wanted to join since it has a good purpose)
3. “Katong mga nag recruit, wala mi kabalo nga mao diay na ang mogawas
namo, mao diay na ang resulta.” (We did not know what would become of
us, that the result is not good.)
4. “Ni ana sila nga para kono ni sa eskwelahan, para malipay si sister, nituo ra
pud mi kay basig kuan ba makatabang mi ni sister. Mao to abi namog mao na
gyud toy kuan. Niapil pud ko kay halos tanang nakong amigo niintra man pud
. Didto naman gasugod, murag gi blind ra mi ba, mao tong mo back out tani
87
mi galing gihadlok man mi nila… Gibantaan gani mi. Bun-ogon, kuanon ba

sakiton… Nahadlok ko, mao nang wa ko nag saba nga mao nay nahitabo
namo kay basi tinud on nila ba. Ang katong mga nag recruit namo.” (They
told us that it is for the school, to make sister happy. We were convinced that
it might help sister. All the while we thought that’s it. I also joined because
most of my friend joined. We were blinded, I wanted to back out but they
threatened us. They said they will hurt us. I was frightened, that’s why I did
not tell anyone about what happened because they might make it happen.)
No easy way out

1. “Gibantaan gani mi. Bun-ogon, kuanon ba sakiton.” (We were threatened;
they told us that they will hurt us.)
2. “Nahadlok ko, mao nang wa ko nag saba nga mao nay nahitabo namo kay
basi tinud on nila ba.” (I was afraid; I kept what happened within me because
they might do it.)
3. “Kay wala pa man nadakpan, dili pud mi manugid kay ug manugid mi kuanon
man pud mi, ila ming gihadlok maaayo ba.” (Because we were not yet caught,
I didn’t tell anyone because they threatened us).
4. “Ila ming, gibahandan mi nga sakiton.” (They said they will hurt us. )
5. “Nahadlok pud ko kay basi ilang tinud-on ang ilang gisulti namo.” (I was
afraid; they might put it into action.)
6. “Murag lain ilang panglantaw nako to, nya mura ganig nasuko. Ang ako ra
pud ato nga dili ra jud ko manugid or wala lang jud koy sugiran para dili sila
namakit nako.” (It seems that they got angry with us. As for me, will not tell
others so that they will not hurt me).
Empty Promises
5. “Wala. Wala gyud kay makuha ana, ila ra jud kang ilaron.” (None. You will
get nothing out of it. They will just give your false promises.)
6. “O pero ga bulag ra mi nila didto. Sige ra mig kuan sa music ba. Ga kuan
namig gitara namo didto ga practice sa banda namo.” (Yes, but we get
ourselves separated with the group. We just play our guitar and had our band
practice.)
7. “Dili jud ka mo apil ana dili pud ka mo pasagad sagad ug sulod ug ingon
ana.” (You should not be impulsive in joining groups like that.)
8. “Dili na siya maayo nga buluhaton ba. Kay buogon ka nila usa ka nila pa
intrahon sa ilang frat.” (It is not a good undertaking. Because they will hurt
you before you will become a member of your their frat.)
9. “Dili jud na maayo ang fraternity, makaguba guid na sa mga plano sa imong
kinabuhi. Murag ga usik ra kag panahon kay dili man makatabang sa
pagpalambo sa akong kaugalingon. Sakit sa lawas ra to.” (Fraternity is not
88
good, it will just destroy your plans in your life. You are wasting your time
because it will not help in developing yourself. )
Social Stigma
10. Dili gid na sya kakuanan kay naa may, usa ka mo kuan ana, bunalan pa gani
ka, dili siya maayo murag kuan kaayo ba buloyagon sa eskwelahan. (It’s not
good, because before you are accepted in the group, they need to hurt you.
There is no good in it because most of the members are troublemakers in
school.)
11. Mura ganig mga hambog kaayo sila… gasalig kay naay mulaban nila ba.
(They even become boastful knowing that there are people who will back
them up.)
The themes that emerge from participant 5 were accidentally and incidentally
hooked, no easy way out, empty promises and social stigma.
Theme 1: Accidentally and Incidentally Hooked
While most have other reasons why they join fraternity, participant 5 states that he
entered fraternity by chance. He was blinded of the true purpose of the organization and
he was trapped because they are not allowed to back-out. He shares, “Wala ra man ko
ato, murag giblind mi sa among kuan ba nga lain na siya nga community nga para ra sa
eskwelahan ba. Wala diay mi kabalo na mao diay na. ganahan ta mi ato mo tabang ba
kay pra man kono sa eskwelahan.” (We were misled by the ones who recruited and told
us that their community is for the school. We did not know about it, we just wanted to
help because they said it was for the school.) “Kuan na convince ko nila kay ang uban
nakong mga amigo ila man pong gi recruit man pud unya mo intra man sila kay abi nila
pra sa kaayuhan.” (They were able to convince me since most of my friends were also
recruited and wanted to join since it has a good purpose) “Katong mga nag recruit, wala
mi kabalo nga mao diay na ang mogawas namo, mao diay na ang resulta.” (We did not
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know what would become of us, that the result is not good.) Thefraternityadvisor 2012,
stated to keep in mind though that after you are initiated you will have crossed the point
of no return and will not be able to start or join another fraternity. In Visayan Daily Star
2011, Nuwer detailed that the victim, whose name the police withheld, was invited by a
fellow teenager Thursday last week to meet his friends. The victim agreed, not knowing
that it would be an initial meeting with the alleged members of the fraternity called the
“Tau Gamma Phi”, Bolivar said. When the victim refused to join the organization, the
“master initiator” threatened him, Bolivar added. It appears that neophytes fall in a trap in
which there is no way out. The fear of being mauled when he decide to quit or back slide
from the group bothers him. As a new recruit he is bound by the bylaws of the
organization. A neophyte who is the lowest ranking members must obey all the other frat
members. He has no right to complain. He must always follow orders no matter what. For
instance, if the master ordered the neophyte to attack the neophyte's best friend, the
neophyte has no choice but to do so or suffer the consequences. Any member who
disobeys orders will be considered a traitor and will instantly expelled and become an
enemy of the frat (Arceelee, 2010). He shared, “Ni ana sila nga para kono ni sa
eskwelahan, para malipay si sister, nituo ra pud mi kay basig kuan ba makatabang mi ni
sister. Mao to abi namog mao na gyud toy kuan. Niapil pud ko kay halos tanang nakong
amigo niintra man pud . Didto naman gasugod, murag gi blind ra mi ba, mao tong mo
back out tani mi galing gihadlok man mi nila… Gibantaan gani mi. Bun-ogon, kuanon ba
sakiton… Nahadlok ko, mao nang wa ko nag saba nga mao nay nahitabo namo kay basi
tinud on nila ba. Ang katong mga nag recruit namo.” (They told us that it is for the
school, to make sister happy. We were convinced that it might help sister. All the while
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we thought that’s it. I also joined because most of my friend joined. We were blinded, I
wanted to back out but they threatened us. They said they will hurt us. I was frightened,
that’s why I did not tell anyone about what happened because they might make it
happen.)
Some to the reasons why fraternity members stay in the group even if they do not
like it was fear. Roland shared, “Gibantaan gani mi. Bun-ogon, kuanon ba sakiton.” (We
were threatened; they told us that they will hurt us.) "We have to frequently remain silent
while renegade members have openly and defiantly harassed, humiliated and committed
physical violence on men seeking membership into Kappa Alpha Psi," Robert L. Harris,
national grand pole march, or president, of Kappa Alpha Psi recently wrote in a
confidential bulletin to members (Applebome, 2001). Any member who disobeys orders
will be considered a traitor and will instantly expelled and become an enemy of the frat
(Arceelee, 2010). He added, “Nahadlok ko, mao nang wa ko nag saba nga mao nay
nahitabo namo kay basi tinud on nila ba.” (I was afraid; I kept what happened within me
because they might do it.) “Kay wala pa man nadakpan, dili pud mi manugid kay ug
manugid mi kuanon man pud mi, ila ming gihadlok maaayo ba.” (Because we were not
yet caught, I didn’t tell anyone because they threatened us).“Ila ming, gibahandan mi nga
sakiton.” (They said they will hurt us. ) He also added, “Nahadlok pud ko kay basi ilang
tinud-on ang ilang gisulti namo.” (I was afraid; they might put it into action.) “ Murag
lain ilang panglantaw nako to, nya mura ganig nasuko. Ang ako ra pud ato nga dili ra
jud ko manugid or wala lang jud koy sugiran para dili sila namakit nako.” (It seems that
they got angry with us. As for me, will not tell others so that they will not hurt me).
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Participant 4 joined the group because it was said to have a good purpose, but
later on he found out the truth. He shared, “Wala. Wala gyud kay makuha ana, ila ra jud
kang ilaron.” (None. You will get nothing out of it. They will just give your false
promises.) As stated by Tristan Zantua, they are blinded by the privileges offered to
them” (Melendez, et al 2012). Frequently, individuals pledge to a fraternity with no idea
that they might be beaten, sexually abused, forced to drink a whole bottle of liquor while
locked naked in the trunk of a car, or hundreds of other humiliating and tortuous hazing
events that take place (http://www.university-college.net/articles/fraternity-hazing.php).
If more individuals were aware of what they might experience, the amount of pledges
would surely drop because one's life and dignity is not worth trading for some brothers.
It appears that some participants did not have any learning after joining fraternity.
A participant also stressed that there is nothing good in joining fraternity, that why
anyone should not be on the rush to enter such organization. He also added that joining
such could be detrimental to a persons’ future. As supported by a recent sociological
study conducted by Richard Arum of New York University and Josipa Roksa of the
University of Virginia found that students who joined the fraternity system showed a
decrease in learning (http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504744_162-20028739-
10391703.html). Some might think that spending your time in any student group would
have the same negative effect on academics than joining a fraternity would, but the study
found that students that joined on-campus clubs, volunteered or had an off-campus job
did not have the same decreases in learning as students that joined fraternities or
sororities.
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Roland shared, “Dili jud ka mo apil ana dili pud ka mo pasagad sagad ug sulod
ug ingon ana.” (You should not be impulsive in joining groups like that.) “Dili na siya
maayo nga buluhaton ba. Kay buogon ka nila usa ka nila pa intrahon sa ilang frat.” (It is
not a good undertaking. Because they will hurt you before you will become a member of
your their frat.) “Dili jud na maayo ang fraternity, makaguba guid na sa mga plano sa
imong kinabuhi. Murag ga usik ra kag panahon kay dili man makatabang sa pagpalambo
sa akong kaugalingon. Sakit sa lawas ra to.” (Fraternity is not good. It will just destroy
your plans in your life. You are wasting your time because it will not help in developing
yourself.)
As he observed the members of his frat, he realized that the members are not
obeying school rules. As such he shared, “Dili gid na sya kakuanan kay naa may, usa ka
mo kuan ana, bunalan pa gani ka, dili siya maayo murag kuan kaayo ba buloyagon sa
eskwelahan. (It’s not good, because before you are accepted in the group, they need to
hurt you. There is no good in it because most of the members are trouble makers in
school.) He added, “Mura ganig mga hambog kaayo sila… gasalig kay naay mulaban
nila ba. (They even become boastful knowing that there are people who will back them
up.) In the public mind, fraternities have been equated with brawling street gangs,
regardless of whether they are based in UP or not. Joining a fraternity has become a game
of Russian roulette, and the names of those who have lost have fed media frenzies for
years (Llaneta, 2009). Fraternity members are generally not expected to be very
intelligent or discerning. The stereotypical "frat boy" will sleep with any member of the
opposite sex, rarely studies, often skips class, sleeps when not partying, and drinks beer
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for breakfast. Fraternity members are also typically characterized as misogynists, make
chauvinists, or very immature (Common Stereotypes of Fraternities | eHow.com
http://www.ehow.com/info_8345338_common -stereotypes-fraternities.html#
ixzz1sSaMBIly). The popular opinion of fraternities is that of a place where “frat boys”
party every night of the week. It’s where one is measured by their drinking ability and
nothing else. Also, they have been thought to be the snobby crowd who act like jerks and
think they are better than everyone else. Many people picture the film “Animal House”
when the subject of fraternities is brought up; a bunch of ogre guys who are drunk all the
time. It is suppose to be lifestyle where they can go through keg after keg and think they
look like the privileged, upper-class society in college life.
Participant 6 “Mara”
Mara is 16-year-old girl and a mother of a 1-year-old boy. She sports a short
haircut. She wears often wear t-shirts instead of blouse. She appears to be boyish in her
actions and has a very strong personality.
1. “Kuan man sir, ganahan ra ko mo sabay sabay nila sir. Dayon mura man ug
astig sir basta naa kay grupo. Naay motabang nimo if magkalisod sir ba, naa
mo resbak nimo. : naay maka laban nimo sir ba ug naa kay kontra o naay
manuya nimo.” (I just want to make friends with them sir. Then it looks cool
to be a member of a group. Someone will help me when I am in need.
Someone will fight for me.)
2. “Kuan sir, nag sugod to katong nakabarkada ko sir, ako ra pong mga
classmates sir ba. Unya niana sila nga if ganahan ba daw ko mo intra ug
grupo? Mao to sir.” (It started when I made friends, most of them are my
classmates. Then they asked me if I want to join their group. That’s it.)
3. “Ila kong gi pa intra sir, ana sila nga kinahanglan nga e initiate ko nila,
dayon ila kong gi initiate sir, ila gipapili if hirap o sarap. Gi ingnan ko nila
nga dili ko manugid sa mga nahitabo sulod sa among grupo pareho anang
initiation. Unya dili pud pwede mahibal-an nga membro ko sa eskwelahan.”
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(They recruited me, and initiation was done by them sir. They let me choose
pain or pleasure. They instructed me not to tell anyone about the things that
happened in our group. The school should never learn that I am a member.)
4. “Human ato sir, nasulod na ko, pawala ra ko sir sa balay kay basi mahalata
ni tita sir ba nga nga hinay ko mulakaw nya mabal an niya nga ni intra ko ug
fraternity dayon naa koy bun-og tungod sa initiation.” (After my iniation, I
made sure that my aunt will not notice how I walked because of the bruises
from initiation.)
5. “Mag tapok2 mi sir, inom2 sa park sir or sa balay sa among kauban sa
fraternity. Tato-tago man sir among activity kay kabalo man mi nga bawal,
basi unya ipa drop mi sa eskwelahan tungod nga membro mi sa fraternity.”
(We get together, we drink in the park or in the house of one of our co-
member. Our activities are not public because we know that it is not allowed,
and the school might drop or expel us.)
6. “Kanang mag initiation pud sir. Pwede mo bunal sir kay kato raman nang
dugay na dayon kinahanglan pud na sya nga naka survive sa bunal nga pra
maka initiate, walay labot katong pag sulod niya sa grupo. usa ka maka
initiate kon maka survive na ka sa bunal para maka initiate.” (During
initiation, the paddling is done by old members but first he needs to survive
paddling other then the initiaton paddles for him to be the initiator.)
7. “Kuan man sir gud, ganahan ko nga nay maminaw nako sir ba naa koy
maistorya kabahin sa akong mga problema.” (I just want that somebody will
listen to me.)
8. “Kuan man sir wala naman koy papa dayon akong mama dili pud mi close.
Tua man cya sa layo sir nangita ug kwarta.” (I don’t have a father and I am
not close to my mother. She works far from here.)
9. “Sa balay sa akong tita ko sir gapuyo,wala man pud cya permi sa balay sir.”
(I live at my Aunts house, she is always out.)
10. “Ganahan ko sir nga dili ko permi mag tanga sa balay kay mingaw man
kaayo didto, wala permi tawo.” (I don’t want to stay at home, nobody is
there.)
11. “Kuan sir, nadaghan kog kaila dayon, mas na close ko sa akong barkada sir
ba.” (I get to know more and my friends and I became closer.)
12. “Kuan sir, naa koy protections sir ba. mahadlok ang uban mo hilabot kay
kabalo sila nga naa koy grupo. wala man sir, daghan ra jud tingali mi, basi
mao na mahadlok ang uban.” ( I have protection; people will be apprehensive
to touch me because I have a fraternity.)
13. “Naa koy mga ka edad sir nga maka istorya kabahin ga akong problema.” (I
have grown ups to talk to with regard to my problems)
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14. “kuan gro sir kanang among pag tamdanay siguro sir, kay mura na gani mi
ug pamilya sir sa kasuod.” (The care for each other, sir; we are like a family
because of our closeness.)
15. “kuan pud sir naa man gud miy sabot nga wala juy biyaanay. Kon naa ganiy
madakpan nga usa dili jud mosugid ug kinsa pa ang among mga kauban.
Wala juy dapat mo estorya kabahin sa among grupo. Unya once nga
nakasulod na ka sir dili na ka pwede mo gawas.” (We have an agreement not
to leave each other. If someone gets caught he should not squeal the names of
our fratmates. No one should talk about our group. Then once you are in you
cannot quit.)
16. “Ila man konong balikan sir. Basi ila tagaan ug leksyon. Ila gro sakiton sir e.
murag na sulti man pud na namo pag intiation sir nga dili jud dapat mo
istorya kay if naay mo labag abi sir ila mang resbakan.” (They will get back
at him sir. They will teach him a lesson. They might hurt the person sir. I
think they also made mention on that during our initation, not to talk about it
because they will get back on that person.)
17. “Basta sir ha, dili ni mogawas ang atong giistoryahan.” (Promise me sir, that
what transpired here will be confidential.)
18. “kuan sir, kanang, namabdos ko sir nga bata pa ko, unya wala pa jud ko
kabalo kinsa’y amahan sa akong anak. Naundang ko sa akong pag eskwela
tungod ana sir. Sige man ko ug kuyog2 sa akong kauban grupo sir. Grabe jud
ang akong pagsalig nila kay mura na gud mi ug pamilya. Siguro nahubog na
gro mi ato sir, mao nang wala na mi kabalo unsa nahitabo.” (I got pregnant
at a yong age, sir, and I do not know who the father of my child is. I stopped
school because of it. I used to go with my group sir. I put all my trust in them
because we are like family. Maybe I was drunk during that time and I didn’t
know what happened.)
19. “Dayon na undang ko sa pag eskwela sir kay tungod nga nanabdos ko. Lisod
kaayo sir kay bata pa ko kaayo naa na koy anak. Wala pa juy amahan.” (I
dropped out of school because I was pregnant. It is hard because at an early
age I already have a child without a father.)
20. “Murag nalain sila (parents) sir e. abi nila ga tinarong ko ug eskwela, unya
wala diay to.” (My parents felt bad, all the while they thought I was diligently
studying.)
21. “Wala na ko ga kuyog nila sir e. madahan, mao na ni ang nahitabo nako
masige pa kog uban nila. unya naa na pud koy anak.” ( I distanced my self
from the group because of what happened.)
22. “Kuan sir maayo ra sa una dayon, kuan murag makaguba sa kaugmaon sir
ba. pareho nako nahimog mama nga dili pa panahon.” (Its was good at first,
but it destroyed my future. I am a teenage mother now.)
96
23. “Dili jud maayo nga mo intra2 ang mga kabataan pareho nako sir. Kay dili
pa kaayo sila kabalo sa ilang buhaton.” (It is not good for teenagers like me
to join because they are not yet capable of deciding for ourselves.)
24. “maayo jud diay nga wala gitugtan sa eskwelahan ang pagsulod sa fraternity
kay lain jud diay ang resulta sa ulihi, sa ulihi ra jud ang pagmahay sir.” (I
realized that the school did not permit fraternity’s presence in campus because
of its negative results, regret is always last.)
25. “Dili sayon ang akong sitwasyon ron sir kay naa nakoy anak dayon
gapadayon ko sa akong pang eskwela.” (It is not easy to be in my situation
now, I have a child and I am studying.)
26. “Basta sir ha wala makabalo ani nga nag istoryahanay ta sir ha.” (Promise
me sir that no one will find out about what we have discussed.
Belongingness
1. “Kuan man sir, ganahan ra ko mo sabay sabay nila sir. Dayon mura man ug
astig sir basta naa kay grupo. Naay motabang nimo if magkalisod sir ba, naa
mo resbak nimo. : naay maka laban nimo sir ba ug naa kay kontra o naay
manuya nimo.” (I just want to make friends with them sir. Then it looks cool
be a member of a group. Someone will help me when I am in need. Someone
will fight for me.)
2. “Kuan sir, nag sugod to katong nakabarkada ko sir, ako ra pong mga
classmates sir ba. Unya niana sila nga if ganahan ba daw ko mo intra ug
grupo? Mao to sir.” (It started when I made friends, most of them are my
classmates. Then they asked me if I want to join their group. That’s it.)
3. “Kuan man sir gud, ganahan ko nga nay maminaw nako sir ba naa koy
maistorya kabahin sa akong mga problema.” (I just want that somebody will
listen to me.)
4. “Kuan man sir wala naman koy papa dayon akong mama dili pud mi close.
Tua man cya sa layo sir nangita ug kwarta.” (I don’t have a father and I am
not close to my mother, she works far from here.)
5. “Sa balay sa akong tita ko sir gapuyo,wala man pud cya permi sa balay sir.”
(I live at my Aunts house, she is always out.)
6. “Ganahan ko sir nga dili ko permi mag tanga sa balay kay mingaw man
kaayo didto, wala permi tawo.” (I don’t want to stay at home, nobody is
there.)
7. “Naa koy mga ka edad sir nga maka istorya kabahin ga akong problema.” (I
have grown ups to talk to with regard to my problems)
8. “kuan gro sir kanang among pag tamdanay siguro sir, kay mura na gani mi
ug pamilya sir sa kasuod.” (The care for each other sir, we are like a family
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Rite of Passage
1. “Ila kong gi pa intra sir, ana sila nga kinahanglan nga e initiate ko nila,
dayon ila kong gi initiate sir, ila gipapili if hirap o sarap. Gi ingnan ko nila
nga dili ko manugid sa mga nahitabo sulod sa among grupo pareho anang
initiation. Unya dili pud pwede mahibal-an nga membro ko sa eskwelahan.”
(They recruited me, and initiation was done by them sir. They let me choose
pain or pleasure. They instructed me not to tell anyone about the things that
happened in our group. The school should never learn that I am a member.)
2. “Kanang mag initiation pud sir. Pwede mo bunal sir kay kato raman nang
dugay na dayon kinahanglan pud na sya nga naka survive sa bunal nga pra
maka initiate, walay labot katong pag sulod niya sa grupo. usa ka maka
initiate kon maka survive na ka sa bunal para maka initiate.” (During
initiation, the paddling is done by old members but first he needs to survive
paddling other then the initiaton paddles for him to be the initiator.)
Secret life
3. “Human ato sir, nasulod na ko, pawala ra ko sir sa balay kay basi mahalata
ni tita sir ba nga nga hinay ko mulakaw nya mabal an niya nga ni intra ko ug
fraternity dayon naa koy bun-og tungod sa initiation.” (After my iniation, I
made sure that my aunt will not notice how I walked because of the bruises
from initiation.)
4. “Kuan pud sir naa man gud miy sabot nga wala juy biyaanay. Kon naa ganiy
madakpan nga usa dili jud mosugid ug kinsa pa ang among mga kauban.
Wala juy dapat mo estorya kabahin sa among grupo. Unya once nga
nakasulod na ka sir dili na ka pwede mo gawas.” (We have an agreement not
to leave each other. If someone get caught he should not squeal the names of
our fratmates. No one should talk about our group. Then once you are in you
cannot quit.)

5. “Mag tapok2 mi sir, inom2 sa park sir or sa balay sa among kauban sa
fraternity. Tato-tago man sir among activity kay kabalo man mi nga bawal,
basi unya ipa drop mi sa eskwelahan tungod nga membro mi sa fraternity.”
(We get together, we drink in the park or in the house of one of our co-
member. Our activities are not public because we know that it is not allowed,
and the school might drop or expel us.)
6. “Kuan sir, kanang, namabdos ko sir nga bata pa ko, unya wala pa jud ko
kabalo kinsa’y amahan sa akong anak. Naundang ko sa akong pag eskwela
tungod ana sir. Sige man ko ug kuyog2 sa akong kauban grupo sir. Grabe jud
ang akong pagsalig nila kay mura na gud mi ug pamilya. Siguro nahubog na
gro mi ato sir, mao nang wala na mi kabalo unsa nahitabo.” (I got pregnant
at a young age, sir and I do not know who the father of my child is. I stopped
school because of it. I used to go with my group sir. I put all my trust in them
because we are like family. Maybe I was drunk during that time and I didn’t
know what happened.)
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Personal Gain
7. “Kuan sir, nadaghan kog kaila dayon, mas na close ko sa akong barkada sir
ba.” (I get to know more and my friends and I became closer.)
8. “Kuan sir, naa koy protections sir ba. mahadlok ang uban mo hilabot kay
kabalo sila nga naa koy grupo. wala man sir, daghan ra jud tingali mi, basi
mao na mahadlok ang uban.” ( I have protection, people will be apprehensive
to touch me because I have a fraternity.
No easy way out

9. “Ila man konong balikan sir. Basi ila tagaan ug leksyon. Ila gro sakiton sir e.
murag na sulti man pud na namo pag intiation sir nga dili jud dapat mo
istorya kay if naay mo labag abi sir ila mang resbakan.” (They will get back
at him sir. They will teach him a lesson. They might hurt the person sir. I
think they also made mention on that during our initation, not to talk about it
because they will get back on that person.)
10. “Basta sir ha, dili ni mogawas ang atong giistoryahan.” (Promise me sir, that
what transpired here will be confidential.)
11. “Basta sir ha wala makabalo ani nga nag istoryahanay ta sir ha.” (Promise
me sir that no one will find out about what we have discussed.
School Freeze
12. “Dayon na undang ko sa pag eskwela sir kay tungod nga nanabdos ko. Lisod
kaayo sir kay bata pa ko kaayo naa na koy anak. Wala pa juy amahan.” (I
dropped out of school because I was pregnant. It is hard because at an early
age I already have a child without a father.)
13. “Murag nalain sila (parents) sir e. abi nila ga tinarong ko ug eskwela, unya
wala diay to.” (My parents felt bad, all the while they thought I was diligently
studying.)
Empty Promises
14. “Kuan sir maayo ra sa una dayon, kuan murag makaguba sa kaugmaon sir
ba. pareho nako nahimog mama nga dili pa panahon.” (Its was good at first,
but it destroyed my future. Like me I am a teenage mother now.)
15. “Dili jud maayo nga mo intra2 ang mga kabataan pareho nako sir. Kay dili
pa kaayo sila kabalo sa ilang buhaton.” (It is not good for teenagers like me
to join because we are not yet capable of deciding for ourselves.)
16. “maayo jud diay nga wala gitugtan sa eskwelahan ang pagsulod sa fraternity
kay lain jud diay ang resulta sa ulihi, sa ulihi ra jud ang pagmahay sir.” (I
realized that the school did not permit fraternity’s presence in campus because
of its negative results, regret is always last.)
17. “Dili sayon ang akong sitwasyon ron sir kay naa nakoy anak dayon
gapadayon ko sa akong pang eskwela.” (It is not easy to be in my situation
now, I have a child ang I am studying.)
18. “Wala na ko ga kuyog nila sir e. madahan, mao na ni ang nahitabo nako
masige pa kog uban nila. unya naa na pud koy anak.” (I distanced my self
from the group because of what happened.)
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The themes to emerge from participant 6 were belongingness, rite of passage,
secret life, physical and mental exploitation, support system, no easy way out, school
freeze and empty promises.
Mara was looking for friends with whom she can relate with. She shares, “Kuan
man sir, ganahan ra ko mo sabay sabay nila sir. Dayon mura man ug astig sir basta naa
kay grupo. Naay motabang nimo if magkalisod sir ba, naa mo resbak nimo. : naay maka
laban nimo sir ba ug naa kay kontra o naay manuya nimo.” (I just want to make friends
with them sir. Then it looks cool to be a member of a group. Someone will help me when
I am in need. Someone will fight for you.) Human beings are social animals; they mature
over a long period in dyadic, small group, and other group contexts. Thus, it is not
surprising that a growing body of evidence suggests that people are healthier and happier
when they experience social belonging. It appears that her friends had a strong influence
why they were involved in fraternity. The desire to belong to a group may influence an
adolescent's behavior well before he or she is actually a member of the group (B.
Newman, B. Lohman, P. Newman, 2012). When asked about how she was convinced to
join the fraternity she said, “Kuan sir, nag sugod to katong nakabarkada ko sir, ako ra
pong mga classmates sir ba. Unya niana sila nga if ganahan ba daw ko mo intra ug
grupo? Mao to sir.” (It all started when I get involved with my circle of friends, who are
my classmates, and they invited me to join the group).
A sense of group belonging is a psychological construct (Kiesner, Cardinu,
Poulin, & Bucci, 2002; Stone & Brown, 1999 cited in B. Newman, B. Lohman, P.
Newman, 2012 ). Adolescents participate in a complex social environment populated by

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many friendship groups, cliques, and crowds. The desire to belong to a group may
influence an adolescent's behavior well before he or she is actually a member of the
group. Individuals may change their behavior in order to gain peer acceptance.
Adolescents' peers are very influential in terms of socialization (Anderson & Meyer,
2000; Jones & Crawford, 2006). Peer influence begins early in life and increases with age
(Anderson & Meyer; Dohnt & Tiggemann, 2006). She shared, “Kuan man sir gud,
ganahan ko nga nay maminaw nako sir ba naa koy maistorya kabahin sa akong mga
problema.” (I just want that somebody will listen to me.) She added, “Naa koy mga ka
edad sir nga maka istorya kabahin ga akong problema.”I have grown ups to talk to with
regard to my problems)
When people are about to feel comfortable about connecting with others, they feel
that they have a group to belong too. They also feel that they can reach out to the experts
in their lives and community to promote learning. In this stage groups, clubs, social work
exam study groups, and activities are important. People can meet others that have the
same types of interests as they do. Feeling connected and loved by a community helps
build a healthy self esteem as well as self-appreciation. Moreover Gibbons (2006) in his
article “The Idea of Fraternity Revisited” mentioned that the aspiration and drive for
fraternity are indicated throughout the political history of human beings. This is what the
participants shared:
“Kuan man sir wala naman koy papa dayon akong mama dili pud mi close. Tua
man cya sa layo sir nangita ug kwarta.” (I don’t have a father and I am not close to my
mother, she works far from here.)

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“Sa balay sa akong tita ko sir gapuyo,wala man pud cya permi sa balay sir.” (I
live at my Aunts house, she is always out.)
“Ganahan ko sir nga dili ko permi mag tanga sa balay kay mingaw man kaayo
didto, wala permi tawo.” (I don’t want to stay at home, nobody is there.)
One of the reason why she was stayed to be a member in the the organization is
camaraderie between fraternity members. The first and most important reason why Greek
organizations are valuable to colleges and universities is the brotherhood and sisterhood
that they foment. Although the word “camaraderie” is a cliché defense of fraternities and
sororities, the bond that is created between members as a result is certainly visible,
durable and genuine; the relationships between brothers and sisters are bonds that last a
lifetime. Aside from having strong ties with current students, Greek organizations are
also great ways to connect and network with past and future students not only from the
chapter of the school you attended but also chapters from other schools. This unique
networking system between past, present and future students helps create opportunities as
small as shared housing and as big as future employment opportunities (Bommarit,
2012). She shared, “kuan gro sir kanang among pag tamdanay siguro sir, kay mura na
gani mi ug pamilya sir sa kasuod.” (The care for each other, sir; that we are like a family
Theme: 2: Rite of Passage
In this section, the participant narrated how he came to join the fraternity. He
said, “Ila kong gi pa intra sir, ana sila nga kinahanglan nga e initiate ko nila, dayon ila
kong gi initiate sir, ila gipapili if hirap o sarap. Gi ingnan ko nila nga dili ko manugid sa
mga nahitabo sulod sa among grupo pareho anang initiation. Unya dili pud pwede
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mahibal-an nga membro ko sa eskwelahan.” (They recruited me, and initiation was done
by them sir. They let me choose pain or pleasure. They instructed me not to tell anyone to
the things that happened in our group. The school should not also know that I am a
member.) He also added, “Kanang mag initiation pud sir. Pwede mo bunal sir kay kato
raman nang dugay na dayon kinahanglan pud na sya nga naka survive sa bunal nga pra
maka initiate, walay labot katong pag sulod niya sa grupo. usa ka maka initiate kon
maka survive na ka sa bunal para maka initiate.” (During initiation, the paddling is done
by old members but first he needs to survive paddling other then the initiaton paddles for
him to be the initiator.) Recruiting members for a fraternity is called "rushing" and it
usually takes place in the fall. The purpose of rushing is for the "rushee" and the brothers
to get to know one another. When a rushee is a son or other relative of a fraternity
alumnus, he almost automatically receives an invitation to join. Many colleges have their
own rules about rushing and other aspects of fraternity life. To find recruits, fraternities
often turn to friends, along with friends of friends, and hold events to which they invite
fellow students who might be good candidates for rush. When a prospect agrees to join a
fraternity, the process he goes through before he becomes a member is called "pledging."
The purpose of pledging is bonding, both to the fraternity brothers and to the members of
your pledge class. Pledging mostly involves learning about the fraternity and its way of
life. It's also how a pledge shows the brothers that he is worthy of being a member. Often,
pledges are given group projects to complete to show they can work as a team or
individual tasks to show they're willing to help a brother. If the pledge demonstrates what
the brothers are looking for, they initiate him into the fraternity. The initiation may not be
called hazing, but the practice dates back to the 1800s and even though it's banned by
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many campuses and fraternities (http://curiosity.discovery.com/question/how-fraternities-
recruit-their-members).
Because of the clandestine nature of fraternities in the community, Mara did not
tell anyone even her parents that she joined a group. She explained, “Human ato sir,
nasulod na ko, pawala ra ko sir sa balay kay basi mahalata ni tita sir ba nga nga hinay
ko mulakaw nya mabal an niya nga ni intra ko ug fraternity dayon naa koy bun-og
tungod sa initiation.” (After my iniation, I made sure it that my aunt will not notice how I
walked because of the bruises from initiation.) She also shared, “kuan pud sir naa man
gud miy sabot nga wala juy biyaanay. Kon naa ganiy madakpan nga usa dili jud mosugid
ug kinsa pa ang among mga kauban. Wala juy dapat mo estorya kabahin sa among
grupo. Unya once nga nakasulod na ka sir dili na ka pwede mo gawas.” (We have an
agreement not to leave each other. If someone gets caught he should not squeal the names
of our fratmates. No one should talk about our group. Then once you are in you cannot
quit.) She added, “Tago-tago man sir among activity kay kabalo man mi nga bawal, basi
unya ipa drop mi sa eskwelahan tungod nga membro mi sa fraternity” (Our activities are
not public because we know that it is not allowed, and the school might drop or expel us.)
Fraternities were often referred to as “secret societies.” As these societies quickly spread
to other campuses and the first sorority emerged in 1831, Greek organizations consisted
of a network of supporters, with brothers and sisters vowing each other’s loyalty to the
death (Glass, 2012).

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The participant shared the activities they do with her fraternity. As young adults
most to them wanted to explore the world and try things that are new to them. She stated,
“Mag tapok2 mi sir, inom2 sa park sir or sa balay sa among kauban sa fraternity.” (We
get together, we drink in the park or in the house of one of our co-member.) As teenagers
seeking their place in the society they are curious on these substances. With the
availability of these in fraternity meetings chances are they will be forced or enticed to
try it. It also appears that alcohol and drugs are inevitable during fraternity gathering. It is
clearly stated that even though drugs and alcohol is not allowed in their fraternity, deviant
members still find way to sneak in this prohibited substances. The present study provides
strong evidence that higher rates of substance use among US college students who join
fraternities and sororities predate their college attendance, and that membership in a
fraternity or sorority is associated with considerably greater than average increases in
Drinking bottles of liquor, not sleeping for days, streaking, being chained and drug
around campus, fighting, not bathing, and humiliating themselves are all parts of a
pledge's hazing process. Because of this many students are seriously injured and some
even die each year (http://www.university-college.net/articles/fraternity-hazing.php)
When asked about her regrets in joining the group she opened up and said, “kuan
sir, kanang, namabdos ko sir nga bata pa ko, unya wala pa jud ko kabalo kinsa’y
amahan sa akong anak. Naundang ko sa akong pag eskwela tungod ana sir. Sige man ko
ug kuyog2 sa akong kauban grupo sir. Grabe jud ang akong pagsalig nila kay mura na
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gud mi ug pamilya. Siguro nahubog na gro mi ato sir, mao nang wala na mi kabalo unsa
nahitabo.” (I got pregnant at a young age sir and I do not know who the father of my
child is. I stopped school because of it. I used to go with my group sir. I put all my trust
in them because we are like family. Maybe I was drunk during that time and I didn’t
know what happened.) Based on a meta-analysis of more than 13 studies of over 3,000
men, members of fraternities were significantly more likely to accept common rape
myths such as "if a woman is wearing a short skirt she is asking to be raped," (Murnen &
Kohlman, 2007). This same meta-analysis also looked at data from 15 studies with over
5,000 individuals and found that fraternity membership was significantly associated with
increased self-report of sexual aggression (Murnen & Kohlman, 2007).
The participant said that he was able to find deeper and lasting friendship within
the fraternity. They were able to make connections, thus establishing a network in which
they are sheltered from any danger. He will have a group that will help him in his time of
need and backed him up when he is in trouble. A sense of belongingness, self identity,
status and emotional support are some positive consequences associated with gang
membership based on the studies conducted by Chesney-Lind et al. 1995; Clark, 1992;
Virgil, 1988 (cited in Omizo et al. 2000). He shared, “Kuan sir, nadaghan kog kaila
dayon, mas na close ko sa akong barkada sir ba.” (I get to know more and my friends and
I became closer.) The size of your fraternity nationwide will determine the scope of your
potential connections. Because fraternity brothers are sworn to look out for each other,
these connections can come in handy when it's time to apply to graduate school or land a
job (Sparks, 2011). Baquilid (2010) also added that the lifelong friendships your child
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will make be being a member of a fraternity or sorority will last into post-college years.
The participant also added, “Kuan sir, naa koy protections sir ba. mahadlok ang uban mo
hilabot kay kabalo sila nga naa koy grupo. wala man sir, daghan ra jud tingali mi, basi
mao na mahadlok ang uban.” (I have protection, people will be anxious to touch me
because I have a fraternity.)
She expressed her fear and why she stayed in the fraternity. She shared, “ila man
konong balikan sir. Basi ila tagaan ug leksyon. Ila gro sakiton sir e. murag na sulti man
pud na namo pag intiation sir nga dili jud dapat mo istorya kay if naay mo labag abi sir
ila mang resbakan.” (They will get back at him sir. They will teach him a lesson. They
might hurt the person sir. I think they also made mention on that during our initation, not
to talk about it because they will get back on that person.) We have to frequently remain
silent while renegade members have openly and defiantly harassed, humiliated and
committed physical violence on men seeking membership into Kappa Alpha Psi," Robert
L. Harris, national grand pole march, or president, of Kappa Alpha Psi recently wrote in a
confidential bulletin to members (Applebome, 2001). Any member who disobeys orders
will be considered a traitor and will instantly expelled and become an enemy of the frat
(Arceelee, 2010).
She was very worried about her safety and ask me to keep confidential all the
things we have discussed. She stressed, “Basta sir ha, dili ni mogawas ang atong
giistoryahan.” (Promise me sir, that what transpired here will be confidential.) and
added before we end the session, “Basta sir ha wala makabalo ani nga nag istoryahanay ta
sir ha.” (Promise me sir that no one will find out about what we have discussed.
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Theme 7: School Freeze
She shared about her situation and how her studies suffered because of her early
pregnancy. She said , “Dayon na undang ko sa pag eskwela sir kay tungod nga
nanabdos ko. Lisod kaayo sir kay bata pa ko kaayo naa na koy anak. Wala pa juy
amahan.” (I dropped out of school because I was pregnant. It is hard because at an early
age I already have a child without a father.) She also added, “Murag nalain sila (parents)
sir e. abi nila ga tinarong ko ug eskwela, unya wala diay to.”(My parents felt bad; all the
while they thought I was diligently studying.) Nearly one-third of teen girls who have
dropped out of high school cite early pregnancy or parenthood as a key reason (Culp-
Ressler, 2012). Parenthood is a leading cause of school drop out among teen girls—30%
of teen girls cited pregnancy or parent-hood as a reason for dropping out of high school
(Unpublished tabulations by the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned
Pregnancy. Data from the National Educational Longitudinal Study of 2002/2004).
Though at first she was enjoying the company of her fraternity, she later realized
that it was just temporary. She said, “Kuan sir maayo ra sa una dayon, kuan murag
makaguba sa kaugmaon sir ba. Pareho nako nahimog mama nga dili pa panahon.” (It
was good at first, but it destroyed my future. I am a teenage mother now.) She also noted
that, “Dili jud maayo nga mo intra2 ang mga kabataan pareho nako sir. Kay dili pa
kaayo sila kabalo sa ilang buhaton.” (It is not good for teenagers like me to join because
we are not yet capable of deciding for ourselves.) As stated by Tristan Zantua, they are
blinded by the privileges offered to them” (Melendez, et al 2012). Frequently, individuals
pledge a fraternity with no idea that they might be beaten, sexually abused, forced to
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drink a whole bottle of liquor while locked naked in the trunk of a car, or hundreds of
other humiliating and tortuous hazing events that take place (http://www.university-
college.net/articles/fraternity-hazing.php). She agreed that fraternity should not be
allowed in schools. She realized, “maayo jud diay nga wala gitugtan sa eskwelahan ang
pagsulod sa fraternity kay lain jud diay ang resulta sa ulihi, sa ulihi ra jud ang
pagmahay sir.” (I realized that the school did not permit fraternity’s presence in campus
because of its negative results, regret is always last.)
Going back to her she shared, “Dili sayon ang akong sitwasyon ron sir kay naa
nakoy anak dayon gapadayon ko sa akong pang eskwela.” (It is not easy to be in my
situation now, I have a child and I am studying.) She find her situation now difficult,
being a single mother and struggling to finish her schooling. After all that had happened
to her she decided to distance herself from the group. She stressed, “Wala na ko ga
kuyog nila sir e. madahan, mao na ni ang nahitabo nako masige pa kog uban nila. unya
naa na pud koy anak.” (I distanced my self from the group because of what happened.)
Participant 7 “Diego”
Diego is a 20-year-old, 4th year student of a public high school. He has ear
piercing in both ears and sports skin-head look. He often gets into trouble in and outside
of the school because of his looks and his involvement in groups.
1. “Sa akoa arang mama sir, kay akong magulang dili man ko ka istorya kay
kuan man sir gud, wala pud koy time maka istorya niya kay sako pud siya
kaayo sa iyang negosyo sir ba.” (I usually share to my mother,I cannot open
up with my elder sibling because she is busy with her business.)
2. “Usahay sir maki text ko sa akong migo, muana ko nga ma naa koy problema,
muadto/mouli ra man sila ni mama sir basta naa koy problema.” (Sometimes
I will text my mother thru a friend whenever I have a problem and then she
comes and visits.)
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3. “Kuan man sir gud, dili man ta ko mo apil sa fraternity sir, akong sudlan ta
sir ba nga mo college ko kay Tau Gamma, gihagad man ko ni “Rex” nga part
sulod ta ani part. Gipakita man ko niya sa kuan sir ba, unya na inganyo ko sir
ba. Na ingayo ma ko ato sir kay bata pa kog huna huna sir, kay katorse pa
daan ko ato first time nako sulod ug frat. Mao to ang akong unang sulod ug
fraternity, gilayhan ko sir ba kay gipakita ko sa t-shirt unya mao to sir
nanamian ko sa print sir mao tong ni sulod ko.”(After mga 2 months sir
nadakpan mi mao tong murag natagam ko sir. Katong gianaan mi ni ma’am
nga itransfer mi. murag natagam ko ato sir. Wala nako nipadayon sa grupo
sir.” (I was not supposed to join in our fraternity sir. I am suppose to join a
group when I am already in college, like Tau Gamma, but a friend invited me
to join a group. He showed me the T-shirt design and I liked it. I was then
convinced to join. I was still 14 year old that time and it was my first time to
join fraternity. After two months we were caught and I learned my lesson.
When the principal decided to transfer us out I think I’ve learned my lesson
there. I stopped being with the group. )
4. “Kuan sir, after hazing sir kay, naa sila nga avoid eye contact to your master
and lady, and greet your master or lady good morning/good afternoon. Mao
ra man to ang kuan sir, gi hazing gyud mi ato sir.” (After hazing, they
instructed us to avoid eye contact with your master and lady, greet your
master or lady good morning/good afternoon. That was it. We were hazed sir.)
5. “Mao ra jud to sir una-una sir kay sabot2 ra man to unta sir, unya niana man
ko nga dili ra ko modayon part, pagkahuman sir ba ila kong gipa kita ko nila
sa t-shirt, unya murag na enganyo ko sir ba kay print print daan to ang kuan
sa una sir. Mao tong nisulod na lang ko sir. Pagkabuntag gipunggan kong
mama si… niana cya nga ayaw ayaw. Gipunggan kong mama, mao tong
nagpapugong ra pud ko sir. Dayon pagka kuan sir mga kuan gro to alas siete
gisugat ko sa balay, gikarga ra man ko rekta, unya si mama wala kabalo si
mama. Ako daan kuan pud ko sa una.” (At first it was just an agreement
between us, sir. Then I told them that I will not continue, after that they
showed me their shirt, I become interested, and I joined. The morning after
that, my mother would not allow me to join, and I followed her request.
About 7:00 AM, I was picked up, my mother didn’t know.)
6. “Katong mga membro sir, gisugat mi nila, nikuyog na lang pud ko nila kay
disedido man pud ko ato sir ba, kay si mama ray kuan ato, gikasuk-an man
kong mama maayo sir. Mao tong nibalhin kog Quezon sir didto ko gipabalhin
ni mama, Ni ana sya nga maglikay na lang ko sa grupo. Ni ana ko ni mama
nga dili na ko mobalik sa grupo ma, mogawas na ko, ingon siya nga ako ray
bahala nimo.” (The members fetched us because I was determined to join, sir.
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After the incident my mother scolded me. She told me to stay out of our
group and that she will back me up.)
7. “Nya karon nag istoryahanay mi sa presidente sir ba gianaan ko niya nga
brad ug mobalik ka brad naa kay madawat nga niana siya nga bente uno ka
paddle. Niana ko nga di nako mobalik brad, ana sya nga pero tagaan taka ug
quit form. Ingon ko nga ok ra man nako nga tagaan ko ninyo ug quit form
pero pa graduateta sa ko ninyo ug high school usa ko mo quit sa kuan kay
basi maka quit ko brad ba unya maanaan ta sa high school nga niapil sa
grupo2. Pero gi process naman to nila ang akong quit form sir, daghan man
to ang mang quit sir, halos tana dri sa taga Canlaon kay bati man kaayo ang
ilang patakaran dri sir gud.” (The president and I had a talk. He told me if I
will go back to the groups I need to be paddled 21 times. I told him that I will
not join again so he told me that he will give me a quit form. I told him that I
will accept the quit form after my graduation in high school because it might
be misinterpreted that I am joining the fraternity again.)
8. “Kining bali ni active to ato mga 4 months sir, kay murag gi layhan pa ko ato
una sir kay bag-o pa ko ato first time.” (I was an active member for 4 months
sir, because I really like it, it was my first time.)
9. “O, human na sir, pagka abtan tog mga pila ka bulan didto pa jud ko ato na
disappoint atong pagpriso mi sir.” (After few months, I was really
disappointed when we were imprisoned.)
10. “Ni ana ko sir nga, ingon fraternity tabanganay unya wala man diay ni mo
tabang asta ang founder sa Guihulngan.” (They said, fraternity is helping
each other but even the founder in Guihulgan did not help.)
11. “Giapas pa pud ko didto sir, kaming duhang Belio sir ba. Didto mi na
disappoint pag ingon nga brad wala tay dalahiganay ha. O, manalahig, kamo
moy nanalahig namo, dili man ta mi manulod og fraternity kamo may
nanghagad. Ana sila nga pasensyahanay ra gyud ta brad kay sala na sa
atong founder, ingon fraternity ni among gisudlan kami man diay ang giilad
ani diay. Naa man ang presidente sir, gikan man tog Guihulgan. Nisulod ug
fraternity nga Kred mao to na ganyat mi sir. Mag unite ra kno sir, mao tong
pag dinakpanay niana nga ayaw ra mog ka kulba kay kay tabangan mo. Pero
wala jud mi tabangi sir ya. Ingon sa pulis nga kasuhan sila. Nagpakaso mi
ato sir ya kaming nga underage. Gikuan sa tanan nga lain kaayo sir nga
magtabangay magproblema, unya diay to. Mao to niaana mi nga pakasuhan
mo namo ya inosente mi ana ya wala mi kabalo nga ing-ani diay ning
patakaran diay. Mao to sir ba nga na disappoint ko sir ba. After ato sige silag
patawag ug meeting wala koy attend2 sir.” (They went there. It really
disappointed me when they said that that we shouldnot bring the name of our
fellow frat members. If ever we will bring their names we would have not
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joined the fraternity, but then you were the ones who invited us. They said that
they are sorry, that we should forgive them beause it is the fault of our
founder. When he said that it is a fraternity that we have joined but instead we
got involved in a scam. The president was there sir, who is from Guihulngan.
We joned the Kred fraternity because they were persistent in recruiting us.
They promised that there is unity in the fraternity, when we were arrested they
told us not to worry because we will be given assistance. Butt no help came
from the fraternity. The police said they will be acussed with the crime they
have committed. All of us who were underaged, we had ourselves filed with
the case. Because of this we had charge them with a case since we are
innocent, we do not know anything about it. From that time on, I did not
attend any meeting that they called.)
12. “pag monthsary/anniversary namo sir mao tong picture na imong nakit an sir,
kuan sir ba luto2 dayon ug naay community service mo apil mi, naka
community pud mi sa police station ug sa menteryo sir, nanglimpyo mi. ang
last nga community nila katong dri sa sa kuan sir ba nagligad nga kuan sir
ba, a katong last tym katong ikaw ang sikat sir, ni community sila sir, gitawag
gani ko ato sir nya ni ana ko nga dili na ko moapil ana uy wala na bitaw ko
ana.” (During our monthsary/anniversary we get together and cook food and
also conduct community service in the police station, in the public cemetery
and their last community serivce was with the program “Ikaw ang Sikat”.
They called me to join them but I declined saying I have nothing to do with
them anymore.)
13. “murag wala man sir, kuan ra sir, murag nisamot kog kadungol sir ba. Ingon
anang mag sinumbagay sir ba kni kay naa tay grupo magsalig sir ba. Pero
kadugayan sir kay.” (Nothing sir, I even got more mischievous. During
fistfights I got more emboldened because I belonged to a group.)
14. “o sir, nakakuan ko sir, pareho atong nakulatahan ko dri sir ba. Atong pag
second year pa ko sir, kaming Campos sir. Katong diri sulod sa eswelahan,
ang principal ato sir si Maam Daylinda.” (Yes sir, like when I got mauled
when Mrs Daylinda Aguila was still the Principal.)
15. “Nakaana ko sir nga a motan-aw ra mang ang uban nakong grupo, wala man
ni laban mao tong kuan sir ni ana ko nga sa akong hunahuna dili diay ni
maayo ang mosulod ta sa group nga ikaw kulatahon dili molaban. Kay kon
kmi sir gud naa miy kauban nga gikulata dili man mi kahimo nga mo tan-aw
sir gud. Motabang man pud mi sir. Mao to ana nga murag sayop bitaw akong
nasudlan sir. Nga di gyud maayo nga makita ug kontra a mosulod kag grupo
dayon magpalaban ka. Mao to nga ni desisyon ko nga mobulag sa grupo.” (I
found out that should I get involved in a fight my frat brother will just leave
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me alone. Right there and then I realized that I joined the wrong group. So I
decided to leave the group.)
16. “Kay gianaan man nako ang uban nakong barkada nga ayaw jud mog
padayon ana brad kay lain kaayo na brad, patakaran nila nga walay klaro
ang patakaran nila ba. Mao to ang uban nanggawas na sir.” (I warned my
my friends not to join because it did not do anything good to me. That is why
the others left the group.)
17. “kuan man sir gud kuan man sir murag nalamian na bitaw ko sir, huna huna
nako sa sauna sir nga ayos gro nga naay grupo ay. Mao to nisulod kos a
grupo sir. Ana man to among ka brad sir ba nga basta naa trouble
maglabananay kno, mao to nga nainganyo ko maayo, kay sa una daan sige
daan ko kakita ug sumbagay nya pila gro kabook nya mao to naintra mi sa
grupo murag gasalig mi sir ba. Pero natagam na jud ko ato sir kay lain diay
kaaayo nga ikaw moy kulatahon unya wala juy motabang nimo. Maypa ang
akong ubang barkada kay mutabang pa.” (At first I enjoyed being with the
group. I thought that it’s good to be with a group, so I decided to join thinking
that whenever I get involve in fistfights my group will be with me. But later
on I found out that they will not leave even a finger when this happens.)
18. “wala lang sir, kuan lang sir naay kuan sir ba for example mo ana sila nga
brad mag ing ani tar on, mag unite bitaw mi, usa ra ka huna2 sir ba, abi
moana nga mag-inom ta ron, murag ginaingon nga sabay sir ba, mao na sir.
Pero nagmahay jud ko sir na ni sulod ko ug fraternity gani” (Nothing sir, its
just that whenever we want to do something or og to a place, we decide as
one. But sir I regret that I joined a fraternity.)
19. “naay uban namo nga kusog kaayo mangitag sumbagay, kining mag maoy,
ing-ana sir mangawat ing ana sir ba, kapila na sila sawayon sir nga ayaw
lagi mo pangawat kay madalasa mi ana nga wala mi labot. Mga gahi mag ulo
sir mao to na niaana ko nga dili maayo nang ing-ani, kita kuyoga unya
maapil mi madalasa mi ba nga wa miy labot. Dili man sila nga gahi mag ulo
mao to sir nga ana ko bahala mo dira uy nitiwalag ko nila atong mga January
or February, brad kanya2 na lang ta a unsa inyong iingon dira basta
madakpan mo ayaw ko ninyo apila. Ang akong frat shirt sir akong gisunog da
ilang atubangan sir timan-i ninyo brad wala nako brad tan-awa ninyo brad,
gi itsa nako akong frat shirt sa tunga sa bonfire kay meeting man pud to sir
mao tong una-unang meeting namo. Nakuan mo ato sir kay nangawat ang usa
namo ka brad unya nadalasa mi tanan, ang pangalan sa grupo. Lain kaayo ka
na record na pud mi sa police station. Wala naman ko ni apil apil nila sir
wala naman ko kabalo sa patakaran nga bag o.” (Some members get
themselves into trouble while some will go into stealing. But they are
hardheaded even if they are told not to do it because it will put the group in
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bad light. However they will still do what they want so I decide to quit as a
member.)
20. “ni ana ra sila sir nga nami nang naay grupo? Niana ra man pud ko ato sir
nga testinge ninyo ug sulod part gud, bali atong panahuna active pa ko sir ba.
Testingi ninyo ug sulod part gud para ma experience pud mo unsa ang naay
fraternity. Kalabanan sa akong barkada nanulod.” (They said that it is good
to belong to a group. Just try to join so you can experience what fraternity is.
Most of my friends joined but most of them are now in Cebu.)
21. “Pag kuan sir gianaan mi nga mugawas mo ani nga organization ayaw mog
ingon nga nagmahay mo sa pasulod ninyo ani. Ug mogawas mo ayaw jud mo
bali ang password namo sir ba dili ra kono ikatag. Mao to sir daghan
kaayong nanggawa. Mao to sir mga pito gro mi ato. Daghan nanggawas sir
pero ako mga Marso gro ko sir. katong I initiation na pud ka sir. Bunalan pud
ka sir, mga 66 ra siguro sir, mga ing-ana gro sir.” (They warned us that when
we get out of the fraternity we should not say that we regret being a member
and that we should not reveal the password. A lot already left the group, butI
might leave on March because of the initiation or goodbye paddles. They will
hit us with the paddle for at least 66 times sir.)
22. “makaluwas ka sir ok na sir. Pero daghan pud sir ang dili mapa initiate sir,
magpa kick-out na lang sila sa grupo sir ba, magdala ug bad record,
lungkab2 sila dayon mamatayg tawo, tanan nga sala ihan-ok nila sa fraternity
nya mao to ipa kick out sila sir ba para wala nay samok sir ba. Naa man puy
ing-ana ang uban sir ba ing-ana ilang ginabuhat. Sa akoa sir initiation jud
akong dawaton sir kay lain pud kaayo sir ba.” (It’s okay sir if you will pass
the initiation. Some will not undergo the initiation and just wanted to be
kicked out. Other will steal and kill people and then blame the fraternity)
23. “Kaun sir naay usahay sir nga good nya naa pud usahay nga mag riot2 sir
ba.” (There is good in it but at times there are riots.)
24. “Naa may kaayuhan ang kuan sir, kanang magtabang-tabang sa community
parehas for example sa activities sa siudad kmi ang kuhaon pra motabang.”
(There is a good side in fraternities. For instance, we help in the community
especially when the city taps us in their activities.)
25. “Naa puy uban sir nga ang uban ka brad mangita ug gubot, mangita ug
sinumbagay ing-ana sir ba. Mao pud nang madala sa ang grupo sir mao nang
dili maayo sa grupo sir ba.” (There are other frat members who often get into
trouble, like fistfights sir. The group will be dragged and the results not good.)
26. “Dili sir taga hazing sir wala ko ga apil sir, usahay naa kos hazing sir motan-
aw ra man ko dili man ko mobunal kay dili man ka ka bunal basta dili ka
senior sir. Kinanglan nga magpa senior pa man ka bag o ka makabunal.” (I
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am not involved in and cannot participate in hazing because I am not yet a

senior member. Only senior members can participate in hazing.)
27. “Bunalan kag kuan sir. after hazing pahuway kag mga one month, after ug
survive depende sir kon magpa senior ba kag dili, kay dili man ka kabunal if
dili ka mag pa senior nya ako sir dili pa man ko senior. Taga hazing sir mo
lookout usahay tan-aw ra ko. Nya katong nagkadugay wala na jud ko ni adto
sa hazing. Katong last nako nga adto katong hapit mi nadakpan” (You will be
hit sir. After undergoing the hazing you take rest for one month. It depends if
you want to be a senior member so that you can participate in hazing. Later on
I did not go to any hazing sessions. The last time I came, we almost got
caught.)
28. “depende sa mga membro sir kon kinsa mo recruit kon maka recruit na mga
tulo mao na pagkahapon initiate dayon maka recruit abi ang kuan naa sa
pulo pataas butangan nag schedule sir sa bernes abi lima dayon sunod napud
semana lima putlon2 na sir ba mao na ang patakaran sa MI dili nila tingbon
sir /It depends on who is the member who will do the recruiting.” (If there are
only three recruits, initiations will start immediately. If there are ten or more
they make a schedule: five on a Friday and the other five the next Friday.
29. “Depende man na sir kon maayo ba kag pagdala sa grupo, ibutang sa
president sir. Basta MI ka sir maayo ka mo bunal maayo pud ka muhatag ug
kuan sir ba kaayuhan sir ba. Pang ampuan nimo sila sir naa kay basahon nga
murag sa initiaton guide sir dayon ikaw mobunal dayon ang mga senior nga
mga member. dili sir depende sir kon pila ang mo bunal depende man na sa
MI sir gud mokuha bi ang MI ug pulo ra ka tawo ang makabunal depende ra
sa MI” (It is how you manage your group. If you are a good MI you can hit
well and if you can hit well youi can also give something good in return. You
pray for them and read the initiation guide then the senioe members will start
hitting the recruits. It depends on the MI how many senior members he will
allow to hit the recruits)
30. “Suppose to be sir dili man ta na hazing sir, naa may uban nga dili hazing
ilang gamit sir. Bali murag training sir ba. Ing-ana sir, naa kay murag fifty
tasks sir ba nya kanang task nga fifty kinahanglan humanon nimo kuan first
semester ana.” (There is supposed no hazing. There are others who require
recruits to do fifty tasks to be completed in one semester.)
31. “mao jud na ang patakaran sir, nakabasa man jud ko sa bylaws ana sir. Naa
pud ta nay 48 hours servicing, before initiation” (That is the policy sir I have
read the bylaws. There is also a 48 hour service before the initiuation.)
32. “kuan sir dili jud lalim nga mosulod ug fraternity kay lisod na ug gawas.
Pareho nako sir, dili ko maka ingong nga safe ko sir kay naa may permi mag
atang nako sa gawas wala na sir mga ka-grupo nanko sa una sir ba. Last time
gani sir ila kong gi tabangan sa gawas. : di man mi basta2 ka quit sir gud.
Mao nang mubalos jud sila.” (It is not easy to join a fraternity because it is
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hard to get out. As for me I am not safe because there is always somebody
watching outside. They even beat me once outside. We just can’t quit
anytime)
Relating to the Family

1. “Sa akoa arang mama sir, kay akong magulang dili man ko ka istorya kay
kuan man sir gud, wala pud koy time maka istorya niya kay sako pud siya
kaayo sa iyang negosyo sir ba.” (I usually share to my mother,I cannot open
up with my elder sibling because she is busy with her business.)
2. “Usahay sir maki text ko sa akong migo, muana ko nga ma naa koy problema,
muadto/mouli ra man sila ni mama sir basta naa koy problema.” (Sometimes
I will text my mother thru a friend whenever I have a problem and the she
comes and visits.)
Curiousity
1. “Kuan man sir gud, dili man ta ko mo apil sa fraternity sir, akong sudlan ta
sir ba nga mo college ko kay Tau Gamma, gihagad man ko ni “Rex” nga part
sulod ta ani part. Gipakita man ko niya sa kuan sir ba, unya na inganyo ko sir
ba. Na ingayo ma ko ato sir kay bata pa kog huna huna sir, kay katorse pa
daan ko ato first time nako sulod ug frat. Mao to ang akong unang sulod ug
fraternity, gilayhan ko sir ba kay gipakita ko sa t-shirt unya mao to sir
nanamian ko sa print sir mao tong ni sulod ko.”(After mga 2 months sir
nadakpan mi mao tong murag natagam ko sir. Katong gianaan mi ni ma’am
nga itransfer mi. murag natagam ko ato sir. Wala nako nipadayon sa grupo
sir.” (I was not supposed to join in our fraternity sir. I am supposed join a
group when I am already in college like Tau Gamma, but a friend invited me
to join a group. He showed me the T-shirt design and I liked it. I was then
convinced to join. I was still 14 year old that time and it was my first time to
join a fraternity. After two months we were caught and I learned my lesson.
When the principal decided to transfer us I think I’ve learned my lesson there.
I stopped being with the group. )
Rite of Passage
1. “Kuan sir, after hazing sir kay, naa sila nga avoid eye contact to your master
and lady, and greet your master or lady good morning/good afternoon. Mao
ra man to ang kuan sir, gi hazing gyud mi ato sir.” (After hazing, they
instructed us to avoid eye contact with your master and lady, greet your
master or lady good morning/good afternoon. That was it. We were hazed sir.)
2. “Mao ra jud to sir una-una sir kay sabot2 ra man to unta sir, unya niana man
ko nga dili ra ko modayon part, pagkahuman sir ba ila kong gipa kita ko nila
sa t-shirt, unya murag na enganyo ko sir ba kay print print daan to ang kuan
sa una sir. Mao tong nisulod na lang ko sir. Pagkabuntag gipunggan kong
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mama si… niana cya nga ayaw ayaw. Gipunggan kong mama, mao tong
nagpapugong ra pud ko sir. Dayon pagka kuan sir mga kuan gro to alas siete
gisugat ko sa balay, gikarga ra man ko rekta, unya si mama wala kabalo si
mama. Ako daan kuan pud ko sa una.” (At first it was just an agreement
between us, sir. Then I told them that I will not continue, after that they
showed me their shirt, I become interested, and I joined. The morning after
that, my mother would not allow me to join, and I followed her request.
About 7:00 AM, I was picked up, my mother didn’t know.)
3. “Katong mga membro sir, gisugat mi nila, nikuyog na lang pud ko nila kay
disedido man pud ko ato sir ba, kay si mama ray kuan ato, gikasuk-an man
kong mama maayo sir. Mao tong nibalhin kog Quezon sir didto ko gipabalhin
ni mama, Ni ana sya nga maglikay na lang ko sa grupo. Ni ana ko ni mama
nga dili na ko mobalik sa grupo ma, mogawas na ko, ingon siya nga ako ray
bahala nimo.” (The members fetched us because I was determined to join, sir.
After the incident my mother scolded me. She told me to stay out of our
group and that she will back me up.)
4. “Ni ana ra sila sir nga nami nang naay grupo? Niana ra man pud ko ato sir
nga testinge ninyo ug sulod part gud, bali atong panahuna active pa ko sir ba.
Testingi ninyo ug sulod part gud para ma experience pud mo unsa ang naay
fraternity. Kalabanan sa akong barkada nanulod.” (They said that it is good
to belong to a group. Just try to join so you can experience being a member of
a community. Most Of my friends joined the fraternity.)
5. “Dili sir taga hazing sir wala ko ga apil sir, usahay naa kos hazing sir motan-
aw ra man ko dili man ko mobunal kay dili man ka ka bunal basta dili ka
senior sir. Kinanglan nga magpa senior pa man ka bag o ka makabunal” (I
am not involved in and cannot participate in hazing because I am not yet a
senior member. Only senior members can participate in hazing)
6. “Bunalan kag kuan sir. after hazing pahuway kag mga one month, after ug
survive depende sir kon magpa senior ba kag dili, kay dili man ka kabunal if
dili ka mag pa senior nya ako sir dili pa man ko senior. Taga hazing sir mo
lookout usahay tan-aw ra ko. Nya katong nagkadugay wala na jud ko ni adto
sa hazing. Katong last nako nga adto katong hapit mi nadakpan.” (You will
be hit sir. After undergoing the hazing you take arrest for one month. It
depends if you want to be a senior member so that you can participate in
hazing. Later on I did not go to any hazing sessions. The last time I came we
almost got caught.)
7. “depende sa mga membro sir kon kinsa mo recruit kon maka recruit na mga
tulo mao na pagkahapon initiate dayon maka recruit abi ang kuan naa sa
pulo pataas butangan nag schedule sir sa bernes abi lima dayon sunod napud
semana lima putlon2 na sir ba mao na ang patakaran sa MI dili nila tingbon
sir.” (It depends on who is the member who will do the recruiting. If there are
only three recruits initiation will start immediately. If there are ten or more,
they make a schedule: five on a Friday and the other five the next Friday.)
8. “Depende man na sir kon maayo ba kag pagdala sa grupo, ibutang sa
president sir. Basta MI ka sir maayo ka mo bunal maayo pud ka muhatag ug
kuan sir ba kaayuhan sir ba. Pang ampuan nimo sila sir naa kay basahon nga
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murag sa initiaton guide sir dayon ikaw mobunal dayon ang mga senior nga
mga member. dili sir depende sir kon pila ang mo bunal depende man na sa
MI sir gud mokuha bi ang MI ug pulo ra ka tawo ang makabunal depende ra
sa MI.” (It is how you manage your group. If you are a good MI you can hit
well and if you can hit well youi can also give something good in return. You
pray for them and read the initiation guide then the senior members will start
hitting the recruits. It depends on the MI how many senior members he will
allow to hit the recruits)
9. “Suppose to be sir dili man ta na hazing sir, naa may uban nga dili hazing
ilang gamit sir. Bali murag training sir ba. Ing-ana sir, naa kay murag fifty
tasks sir ba nya kanang task nga fifty kinahanglan humanon nimo kuan first
semester ana.” (There is supposed no hazing. There are others who require
recruits do do fifty tasks to be completed in one semester.)
10. “Mao jud na ang patakaran sir, nakabasa man jud ko sa bylaws ana sir. Naa
pud ta nay 48 hours servicing, before initiation” (That is the policy sir I have
read the bylaws. There is also a 48 hour service before the initiation.)
Realizing Regrets
1. “O, human na sir, pagka abtan tog mga pila ka bulan didto pa jud ko ato na
disappoint atong pagpriso mi sir.” (After few months, I was really
disappointed when we were imprisoned.)
2. “Ni ana ko sir nga, ingon fraternity tabanganay unya wala man diay ni mo
tabang asta ang founder sa Guihulngan.” (You said, fraternity is helping each
other but even the founder in guihulgan did not help.)
3. “Giapas pa pud ko didto sir, kaming duhang Belio sir ba. Didto mi na
disappoint pag ingon nga brad wala tay dalahiganay ha. O, manalahig, kamo
moy nanalahig namo, dili man ta mi manulod og fraternity kamo may
nanghagad. Ana sila nga pasensyahanay ra gyud ta brad kay sala na sa
atong founder, ingon fraternity ni among gisudlan kami man diay ang giilad
ani diay. Naa man ang presidente sir, gikan man tog Guihulgan. Nisulod ug
fraternity nga Kred mao to na ganyat mi sir. Mag unite ra kno sir, mao tong
pag dinakpanay niana nga ayaw ra mog ka kulba kay kay tabangan mo. Pero
wala jud mi tabangi sir ya. Ingon sa pulis nga kasuhan sila. Nagpakaso mi
ato sir ya kaming nga underage. Gikuan sa tanan nga lain kaayo sir nga
magtabangay magproblema, unya diay to. Mao to niaana mi nga pakasuhan
mo namo ya inosente mi ana ya wala mi kabalo nga ing-ani diay ning
patakaran diay. Mao to sir ba nga na disappoint ko sir ba. After ato sige silag
patawag ug meeting wala koy attend2 sir.” (They went there. It really
disappointed me when they said that that we shouldnot bring the name of our
fellow frat members. If ever you will bring our names we would have not
joined the fraternity, but then you were the ones who invited us. They said that
we’re sorry, just forgive us beause it is the fault of our founder when he said
that it is a fraternity that we have joined but instead we got involved in a
scam. The president was there sir, who is from Guihulngan. We joned the
Kred fraternity because they were persistent in recruiting us. They promised
that there is unity in the fraternity, when we were arrested they told us not to
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worry because we will be given assistance. Butt no help came from the
fraternity. The police said they will be acussed with the crime they have
committed. All of us who were underaged, we had ourselves filed with the
case. Because of this we had charge them with a case since we are innocent,
we do not know anything about it. From that time on, I did not attend any
meeting that they called.)
4. “Nakaana ko sir nga a motan-aw ra mang ang uban nakong grupo, wala man
ni laban mao tong kuan sir ni ana ko nga sa akong hunahuna dili diay ni
maayo ang mosulod ta sa group nga ikaw kulatahon dili molaban. Kay kon
kmi sir gud naa miy kauban nga gikulata dili man mi kahimo nga mo tan-aw
sir gud. Motabang man pud mi sir. Mao to ana nga murag sayop bitaw akong
nasudlan sir. Nga di gyud maayo nga makita ug kontra a mosulod kag grupo
dayon magpalaban ka. Mao to nga ni desisyon ko nga mobulag sa grupo.” (I
found out that should I get involved in a fight my frat brother will just leave
me alone. Right there and then I realized that I joined the wrong group. So I
decided to leave the group.)
5. “Kay gianaan man nako ang uban nakong barkada nga ayaw jud mog
padayon ana brad kay lain kaayo na brad, patakaran nila nga walay klaro
ang patakaran nila ba. Mao to ang uban nanggawas na sir” (I warned my
friends not to join because it will not do anything good to me. That is why the
others left the group.)
6. “Kuan man sir gud kuan man sir murag nalamian na bitaw ko sir, huna huna
nako sa sauna sir nga ayos gro nga naay grupo ay. Mao to nisulod kos a
grupo sir. Ana man to among ka brad sir ba nga basta naa trouble
maglabananay kno, mao to nga nainganyo ko maayo, kay sa una daan sige
daan ko kakita ug sumbagay nya pila gro kabook nya mao to naintra mi sa
grupo murag gasalig mi sir ba. Pero natagam na jud ko ato sir kay lain diay
kaaayo nga ikaw moy kulatahon unya wala juy motabang nimo. Maypa ang
akong ubang barkada kay mutabang pa.” (At first I enjoyed being with the
group. I thought that it is good to be with a group, so I decided to join thinking
thta whenever I get involved in fistfights my group will be with me. But later
on I found out that they will not leave even a finger when this happens.)
7. “Pero nagmahay jud ko sir na ni sulod ko ug fraternity gani” (But sir I regret
That I joined a fraternity)
Fun Filled Activities

1. “pag monthsary/anniversary namo sir mao tong picture na imong nakit an sir,
kuan sir ba luto2 dayon ug naay community service mo apil mi, naka
community pud mi sa police station ug sa menteryo sir, nanglimpyo mi. ang
last nga community nila katong dri sa sa kuan sir ba nagligad nga kuan sir
ba, a katong last tym katong ikaw ang sikat sir, ni community sila sir, gitawag
gani ko ato sir nya ni ana ko nga dili na ko moapil ana uy wala na bitaw ko
ana.” (During our monthsary/anniversary we get together and cook food and
also conduct community service in the police station, in the public cemetery
and their last community service was with the program “Ikaw ang Sikat”.
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They called me to join them but I declined saying I have nothing to do with
them anymore.)
Violence
1. “Murag wala man sir, kuan ra sir, murag nisamot kog kadungol sir ba. Ingon
anang mag sinumbagay sir ba kni kay naa tay grupo magsalig sir ba. Pero
kadugayan sir kay.” (Nothing, sir. I even got more mischievous. During
fistfights I got more emboldened because I belomged to a group.)
2. “O sir, nakakuan ko sir, pareho atong nakulatahan ko dri sir ba. Atong pag
second year pa ko sir, kaming Campos sir. Katong diri sulod sa eswelahan,
ang principal ato sir si Maam Daylinda”. (Yes sir, like when I got mauled
here in school when, Mrs Daylinda Aguila was still the Principal)
3. “Naay uban namo nga kusog kaayo mangitag sumbagay, kining mag maoy,
ing-ana sir mangawat ing ana sir ba, kapila na sila sawayon sir nga ayaw
lagi mo pangawat kay madalasa mi ana nga wala mi labot. Mga gahi mag ulo
sir mao to na niaana ko nga dili maayo nang ing-ani, kita kuyoga unya
maapil mi madalasa mi ba nga wa miy labot. Dili man sila nga gahi mag ulo
mao to sir nga ana ko bahala mo dira uy nitiwalag ko nila atong mga January
or February, brad kanya2 na lang ta a unsa inyong iingon dira basta
madakpan mo ayaw ko ninyo apila. Ang akong frat shirt sir akong gisunog da
ilang atubangan sir timan-i ninyo brad wala nako brad tan-awa ninyo brad,
gi itsa nako akong frat shirt sa tunga sa bonfire kay meeting man pud to sir
mao tong una-unang meeting namo. Nakuan mo ato sir kay nangawat ang usa
namo ka brad unya nadalasa mi tanan, ang pangalan sa grupo. Lain kaayo ka
na record na pud mi sa police station. Wala naman ko ni apil apil nila sir
wala naman ko kabalo sa patakaran nga bag o.”(Some members get
themselves into trouble while some will go into stealing. But they are
hardheaded even if they are told not to do it because it will put the group in
bat light. However, they will still do want they want so I decided to quit as a
member.)
4. “Kaun sir naay usahay sir nga good nya naa pud usahay nga mag riot2 sir
ba.” (There is good in it but at times there are riots.)
5. “Naa puy uban sir nga ang uban ka brad mangita ug gubot, mangita ug
sinumbagay ing-ana sir ba. Mao pud nang madala sa ang grupo sir mao nang
dili maayo sa grupo sir ba.” (There are other frat members who often get into
trouble, like fist fights sir. The group will be dragged and the results not
good.)
Belongingness
1. “wala lang sir, kuan lang sir naay kuan sir ba for example mo ana sila nga
brad mag ing ani tar on, mag unite bitaw mi, usa ra ka huna2 sir ba, abi
moana nga mag-inom ta ron, murag ginaingon nga sabay sir ba, mao na sir”
(Nothing, sir. it’s just whenever we want to do something or go to a place, we
decide as one. But, sir, I regret that I joined a fraternity.)
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No easy way out

1. “Nya karon nag istoryahanay mi sa presidente sir ba gianaan ko niya nga
brad ug mobalik ka brad naa kay madawat nga niana siya nga bente uno ka
paddle. Niana ko nga di nako mobalik brad, ana sya nga pero tagaan taka ug
quit form. Ingon ko nga ok ra man nako nga tagaan ko ninyo ug quit form
pero pa graduateta sa ko ninyo ug high school usa ko mo quit sa kuan kay
basi maka quit ko brad ba unya maanaan ta sa high school nga niapil sa
grupo2. Pero gi process naman to nila ang akong quit form sir, daghan man
to ang mang quit sir, halos tana dri sa taga Canlaon kay bati man kaayo ang
ilang patakaran dri sir gud.” (The president and I had a talk. He told me if I
will go back to the groups I need to be paddled 21 times. I told him that I will
not join again so he told me that he will give me a quit form. I told him that I
will accept the quit form after my graduation in high school because it might
be misinterpreted that I am joing the fraternity again.)
2. “Kining bali ni active to ato mga 4 months sir, kay murag gi layhan pa ko ato
una sir kay bag-o pa ko ato first time.” (I was an active member for 4 months
sir, because I really like it; it was my first time.)
3. “Pag kuan sir gianaan mi nga mugawas mo ani nga organization ayaw mog
ingon nga nagmahay mo sa pasulod ninyo ani. Ug mogawas mo ayaw jud mo
bali ang password namo sir ba dili ra kono ikatag. Mao to sir daghan
kaayong nanggawa. Mao to sir mga pito gro mi ato. Daghan nanggawas sir
pero ako mga Marso gro ko sir. katong I initiation na pud ka sir. Bunalan pud
ka sir, mga 66 ra siguro sir, mga ing-ana gro sir.” (They warned us that when
we get out of the fraternity we should not say that we regret being a member
and that we should not reveal the password. A lot already left the group, butI
might leave on March because of the initiation or goodbye paddles. They will
hit us with the paddle for at least 66 times sir.)
4. “Makaluwas ka sir ok na sir. Pero daghan pud sir ang dili mapa initiate sir,
magpa kick-out na lang sila sa grupo sir ba, magdala ug bad record,
lungkab2 sila dayon mamatayg tawo, tanan nga sala ihan-ok nila sa fraternity
nya mao to ipa kick out sila sir ba para wala nay samok sir ba. Naa man puy
ing-ana ang uban sir ba ing-ana ilang ginabuhat. Sa akoa sir initiation jud
akong dawaton sir kay lain pud kaayo sir ba.” (It’s okay, sir if you will pass
the initiation. Some will not undergo the initiation and just want to be kicked
out. Other will steal and kill people and then blame the fraternity.)
5. “kuan sir dili jud lalim nga mosulod ug fraternity kay lisod na ug gawas.
Pareho nako sir, dili ko maka ingong nga safe ko sir kay naa may permi mag
atang nako sa gawas wala na sir mga ka-grupo nanko sa una sir ba. Last time
gani sir ila kong gi tabangan sa gawas. : di man mi basta2 ka quit sir gud.
Mao nang mubalos jud sila.” (It is not easy to join a fraternity because it is
hard to get out. As for me I am not safe because there is always somebody
watching outside. They even beat me once outside. We just can’t quit
anytime.
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1. “Naa may kaayuhan ang kuan sir, kanang magtabang-tabang sa community
parehas for example sa activities sa siudad kmi ang kuhaon pra motabang.”
(There is good side in fraternities. For instance, we help in the especially
when the city taps us in their activities.)
The themes to emerge from Participant 7 are relating to the family, curiosity, right
of passage, test of bond, fun filled activities, violence, regrets, belongingness, no easy
way out and social responsibility.
Theme 1: Relating to the Family
It appeared that the participant had a hard time relating to his other siblings and
had limited time bonding with his mother because she is busy with her business to
support his studies. He shared, “Sa akoa arang mama sir, kay akong magulang dili man
ko ka istorya kay kuan man sir gud, wala pud koy time maka istorya niya kay sako pud
siya kaayo sa iyang negosyo sir ba.” (I usually share to my mother, I cannot open up
with my elder sibling because she is busy with her business.) He always saught for the
comfort of his mother especially in his struggles with his problem. He added, “Usahay
sir maki text ko sa akong migo, muana ko nga ma naa koy problema, muadto/mouli ra
man sila ni mama sir basta naa koy problema.” (Sometimes I will text my mother thru a
friend whenever I have a problem and then she comes and visits.) According to a report
by the Center for Health Communication, Harvard School of Public Health, [Raising
Teens: A Synthesis of Research and a Foundation for Action, 2001] parents should
incorporate five concepts into their interactions with their teens: Love and Connect,
Monitor and Observe, Guide and Limit, Model and Consult and, Provide and Advocate.
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Theme 2: Curiousity
He was curious of what is in store for him inside the fraternity. He shared what
was his plan and how he came about to be a member his gang. He said, “Kuan man sir
gud, dili man ta ko mo apil sa fraternity sir, akong sudlan ta sir ba nga mo college ko kay
Tau Gamma, gihagad man ko ni “Rex” nga part sulod ta ani part. Gipakita man ko niya
sa kuan sir ba, unya na inganyo ko sir ba. Na ingayo ma ko ato sir kay bata pa kog huna
huna sir, kay katorse pa daan ko ato first time nako sulod ug frat. Mao to ang akong
unang sulod ug fraternity, gilayhan ko sir ba kay gipakita ko sa t-shirt unya mao to sir
nanamian ko sa print sir mao tong ni sulod ko. After mga 2 months sir nadakpan mi mao
tong murag natagam ko sir. Katong gianaan mi ni ma’am nga itransfer mi. murag
natagam ko ato sir. Wala nako nipadayon sa grupo sir.” (I was not supposed to join in
our fraternity sir. I am supposed to join a group when I am already in college like Tau
Gamma, but a friend invited me to join a group. He showed me the T-shirt design and I
liked it. I was then convinced to join. I was still 14 year old that time and it was my first
time to join a fraternity. After two months we were caught and I learned my lesson. When
the principal decided to transfer us I think I’ve learned my lesson there. I stopped being
with the group.) Erickson’s theory on the psychosocial stages of human development is
very clear about the need for identity (Sigelman & Rider, 2009). At this stage,
adolescents are in search of an identity that will lead them to adulthood. Adolescents
make a strong effort to answer the question "Who am I?" Erikson notes the healthy
resolution of earlier conflicts can now serve as a foundation for the search for an identity.
During adolescence, children are exploring their independence and developing a sense of
self (Cherry, 2012). Gerrard (2007) found that teenagers’ decisions are often not planned
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or even premeditated. Instead, they're reactive to "risk-conducive" circumstances that
usually involve friends and peers. Furthermore, Ferguson (2005) suggest that
adolescents are more prone to react with 'gut instinct' when they process emotions, but as
they mature into early adulthood, they are able to temper their instinctive 'gut reaction'
response with rational, reasoned responses," says Yurgelun-Todd (2005) .
Theme 3: Rite Of Passage
During the conversation the participant explained how he entered and how he was
recruited to join the group. He revealed, “Kuan sir, after hazing sir kay, naa sila nga
avoid eye contact to your master and lady, and greet your master or lady good
morning/good afternoon. Mao ra man to ang kuan sir, gi hazing gyud mi ato sir.” (After
hazing, they instructed us to avoid eye contact with your master and lady, greet your
master or lady good morning/good afternoon. That was it. We were hazed sir.) He also
shared his doubts, “Mao ra jud to sir una-una sir kay sabot2 ra man to unta sir, unya
niana man ko nga dili ra ko modayon part, pagkahuman sir ba ila kong gipa kita ko nila
sa t-shirt, unya murag na enganyo ko sir ba kay print print daan to ang kuan sa una sir.
Mao tong nisulod na lang ko sir. Pagkabuntag gipunggan kong mama si… niana cya
nga ayaw ayaw. Gipunggan kong mama, mao tong nagpapugong ra pud ko sir. Dayon
pagka kuan sir mga kuan gro to alas siete gisugat ko sa balay, gikarga ra man ko rekta,
unya si mama wala kabalo si mama. Ako daan kuan pud ko sa una.” (At first it was just
an agreement between us, sir. Then I told them that I will not continue, after that they
showed me their shirt, I become interested, and I joined. The morning after that, my
mother would not allow me to join, and I followed her request. About 7:00 AM, I was
picked up, my mother didn’t know.) He added, “Katong mga membro sir, gisugat mi
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nila, nikuyog na lang pud ko nila kay disedido man pud ko ato sir ba, kay si mama ray
kuan ato, gikasuk-an man kong mama maayo sir. Mao tong nibalhin kog Quezon sir didto
ko gipabalhin ni mama, Ni ana sya nga maglikay na lang ko sa grupo. Ni ana ko ni
mama nga dili na ko mobalik sa grupo ma, mogawas na ko, ingon siya nga ako ray
bahala nimo.” (The members fetched us because I was determined to join, sir. After the
incident my mother scolded me. She told me to stay out of our group and that she will
back me up.) He explained, “Suppose to be sir dili man ta na hazing sir, naa may uban
nga dili hazing ilang gamit sir. Bali murag training sir ba. Ing-ana sir, naa kay murag
fifty tasks sir ba nya kanang task nga fifty kinahanglan humanon nimo kuan first semester
ana.” (There is supposed no hazing. There are others who require recruits to do fifty
tasks to be completed in one semester.) but he cleared on the later part that “Mao jud na
ang patakaran sir, nakabasa man jud ko sa bylaws ana sir. Naa pud ta nay 48 hours
servicing, before initiation” (That is the policy sir I have read the bylaws. There is also
a 48 hour service before the initiuation.)
He also added his involvement in their initiation process. He even recruited his
friends to join. He said, “Ni ana ra sila sir nga nami nang naay grupo? Niana ra man
pud ko ato sir nga testinge ninyo ug sulod part gud, bali atong panahuna active pa ko sir
ba. Testingi ninyo ug sulod part gud para ma experience pud mo unsa ang naay
fraternity. Kalabanan sa akong barkada nanulod.” (They said that it is good to belong to
a group. Just try to join so you can experience being a member of a community. Most Of
my friends joined the fraternity.) He shared, “Dili sir taga hazing sir wala ko ga apil
sir, usahay naa kos hazing sir motan-aw ra man ko dili man ko mobunal kay dili man ka
ka bunal basta dili ka senior sir. Kinanglan nga magpa senior pa man ka bag o ka
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makabunal” (I am not involved in and cannot participate in hazing because I am not yet a
senior member. Only senior members can participate in hazing.) He also shared what are
the requirements to be an initiator, “Bunalan kag kuan sir. after hazing pahuway kag mga
one month, after ug survive depende sir kon magpa senior ba kag dili, kay dili man ka
kabunal if dili ka mag pa senior nya ako sir dili pa man ko senior. Taga hazing sir mo
lookout usahay tan-aw ra ko. Nya katong nagkadugay wala na jud ko ni adto sa hazing.
Katong last nako nga adto katong hapit mi nadakpan” (You will be hit sir. After
undergoing the hazing you take a rest for one month. It depends if you want to be a
senior member so that you can participate in hazing. Later on I did not go to any hazing
sessions. The last time I came we almost got caught.) Hazing is a problem that seems to
go unnoticed and unreported for the most part, thus, allowing it to be regarded as
"normal" and even acceptable behavior. Most predominantly, this hazing occurs within
the Greek system on many campuses and involves, but is not limited to, physical, mental
and sexual abuse, all of which can potentially lead to acts of violence outside of the
Greek system such as gang rape. And while fraternity hazing rituals seem to appear in the
news more often than sorority hazing events, of which only ten or so are reported each
year, sorority sisters are just as guilty of such acts as their fellow brothers (Carlton,
2009).
He also shared on how their fraternity recruits. He said, “depende sa mga membro
sir kon kinsa mo recruit kon maka recruit na mga tulo mao na pagkahapon initiate dayon
maka recruit abi ang kuan naa sa pulo pataas butangan nag schedule sir sa bernes abi
lima dayon sunod napud semana lima putlon2 na sir ba mao na ang patakaran sa MI dili
nila tingbon sir.” (It depends on who is the member who will do the recruiting. If there
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are only three recruits initiation will start immediately. If there are ten up they maaaaaake
a schedule sya five on a Friday and the other five on the next Friday. He added ,
“Depende man na sir kon maayo ba kag pagdala sa grupo, ibutang sa president sir.
Basta MI ka sir maayo ka mo bunal maayo pud ka, muhatag ug kuan sir ba kaayuhan sir
ba. Pang ampuan nimo sila sir naa kay basahon nga murag sa initiaton guide sir dayon
ikaw mobunal dayon ang mga senior nga mga member. dili sir depende sir kon pila ang
mo bunal depende man na sa MI sir gud mokuha bi ang MI ug pulo ra ka tawo ang
makabunal depende ra sa MI” (It is how you manage your group. If you are a good MI
you can hit well and if you can hit well youi can also give something good in return. You
pray over them and read the initiation guide then the senioe members will start hitting the
recruits. It depends on the MI how many senior members he will allow to hit the recruits.)
Theme 4: Realizing Regrets
During the conversation the particiapant revealed his disappointments with his
fraternity. He declared that his fraternity did not help him during in his time of need. He
shared, “O, human na sir, pagka abtan tog mga pila ka bulan didto pa jud ko ato na
disappoint atong pagpriso mi sir.” (After few months, I was really disappointed when we
were imprisoned.) He expressed his disappointment, “Ni ana ko sir nga, ingon fraternity
tabanganay unya wala man diay ni mo tabang asta ang founder sa Guihulngan.” (You
said, fraternity is helping each other but even the founder in guihulgan did not help.) He
added, “Giapas pa pud ko didto sir, kaming duhang Belio sir ba. Didto mi na disappoint
pag ingon nga brad wala tay dalahiganay ha. O, manalahig, kamo moy nanalahig namo,
dili man ta mi manulod og fraternity kamo may nanghagad. Ana sila nga pasensyahanay
ra gyud ta brad kay sala na sa atong founder, ingon fraternity ni among gisudlan kami
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man diay ang giilad ani diay. Naa man ang presidente sir, gikan man tog Guihulgan.
Nisulod ug fraternity nga Kred mao to na ganyat mi sir. Mag unite ra kno sir, mao tong
pag dinakpanay niana nga ayaw ra mog ka kulba kay kay tabangan mo. Pero wala jud
mi tabangi sir ya. Ingon sa pulis nga kasuhan sila. Nagpakaso mi ato sir ya kaming nga
underage. Gikuan sa tanan nga lain kaayo sir nga magtabangay magproblema, unya
diay to. Mao to niaana mi nga pakasuhan mo namo ya inosente mi ana ya wala mi
kabalo nga ing-ani diay ning patakaran diay. Mao to sir ba nga na disappoint ko sir ba.
After ato sige silag patawag ug meeting wala koy attend2 sir.” (They went there. It really
disappointed me when they said that that we shouldnot bring the name of our fellow frat
members. If ever you will bring our names we would have not joined the fraternity, but
then you were the ones who invited us. They said that we’re sorry, just forgive us beause
it is the fault of our founder when he said that it is a fraternity that we have joined but
instead we got involved in a scam. The president was there sir, who is from Guihulngan.
We joned the Kred fraternity because they were persistent in recruiting us. They
promised that there is unity in the fraternity, when we were arrested they told us not to
worry because we will be given assistance. Butt no help came from the fraternity. The
police said they will be acussed with the crime they have committed. All of us who were
underaged, we had ourselves filed with the case. Because of this we had charge them
with a case since we are innocent, we do not know anything about it. From that time on, I
did not attend any meeting that they called.) He really felt bad , “Nakaana ko sir nga a
motan-aw ra mang ang uban nakong grupo, wala man ni laban mao tong kuan sir ni ana
ko nga sa akong hunahuna dili diay ni maayo ang mosulod ta sa group nga ikaw
kulatahon dili molaban. Kay kon kmi sir gud naa miy kauban nga gikulata dili man mi
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kahimo nga mo tan-aw sir gud. Motabang man pud mi sir. Mao to ana nga murag sayop
bitaw akong nasudlan sir. Nga di gyud maayo nga makita ug kontra a mosulod kag grupo
dayon magpalaban ka. Mao to nga ni desisyon ko nga mobulag sa grupo.” (I found out
that should I get involved in a fight my frat brother will just leave me alone. Right there
and then I realized that I joined the wrong group. So I decide to leave the group.)
At the end of the day, the participant showed regrets on his decision to join
fraternity. He even told his friends not join any fraternity. He said, “Kay gianaan man
nako ang uban nakong barkada nga ayaw jud mog padayon ana brad kay lain kaayo na
brad, patakaran nila nga walay klaro ang patakaran nila ba. Mao to ang uban
nanggawas na sir” (I warned my friends not to join because it will not do anything good
to me. That is why the others left the group.) He also added his regrets in joining the
group. He shared, “Kuan man sir gud kuan man sir murag nalamian na bitaw ko sir,
huna huna nako sa sauna sir nga ayos gro nga naay grupo ay. Mao to nisulod kos a
grupo sir. Ana man to among ka brad sir ba nga basta naa trouble maglabananay kno,
mao to nga nainganyo ko maayo, kay sa una daan sige daan ko kakita ug sumbagay nya
pila gro kabook nya mao to naintra mi sa grupo murag gasalig mi sir ba. Pero natagam
na jud ko ato sir kay lain diay kaaayo nga ikaw moy kulatahon unya wala juy motabang
nimo. Maypa ang akong ubang barkada kay mutabang pa.” (At first I enjoyed being
with the group. I thought that it is good to be with a group, so I decided to join thinking
that whenever I get involved in fistfights my group will be with me. But later on I found
out that they will not leave even a finger when this happens.) He added, “Pero nagmahay
jud ko sir na ni sulod ko ug fraternity gani.” ( But sir I regret That I joined a fraternity.)
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Theme 5: Fun Filled Activities
He shared about how they celebrate their anniverasary. He said, “Pag
monthsary/anniversary namo sir mao tong picture na imong nakit an sir, kuan sir ba
luto2 dayon ug naay community service mo apil mi, naka community pud mi sa police
station ug sa menteryo sir, nanglimpyo mi. ang last nga community nila katong dri sa sa
kuan sir ba nagligad nga kuan sir ba, a katong last tym katong ikaw ang sikat sir, ni
community sila sir, gitawag gani ko ato sir nya ni ana ko nga dili na ko moapil ana uy
wala na bitaw ko ana” (During our monthsary/anniversary we get together and cook food
and also conduct community service in the police station, in the public cemetery and their
last community service was with the program “Ikaw ang Sikat”. They called me to join
them but I declined saying I have nothing to do with them anymore.) Fraternity and
sorority community provides services to more than just its members. One of the many
advantages of being part of the community is time spent helping others in need. The
commitment found in members can be seen in the enthusiasm they have in giving back to
the community in Community service, also known as philanthropies (Veronica,2008) .
Theme 6: Violence
He realized that being a fraternity member did not help him as person. He thinks
that it had aggrevated his wrong attitudes. He shared, “Murag wala man sir, kuan ra sir,
murag nisamot kog kadungol sir ba. Ingon anang mag sinumbagay sir ba kni kay naa tay
grupo magsalig sir ba. Pero kadugayan sir kay.” (Nothing sir, I even got more
mischievous. During fistfights I got more emboldened because I belomged to a group.)
He also opened up his experience on hostility because of fraternity. He said, “O sir,
nakakuan ko sir, pareho atong nakulatahan ko dri sir ba. Atong pag second year pa ko
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sir, kaming Campos sir. Katong diri sulod sa eswelahan, ang principal ato sir si Maam
Daylinda.” (Yes sir, like when I got mauled here in school when, Mrs Daylinda Aguila
was still the Principal). He also mentioned that some of his frat mates are trouble makers.
He added, “Naay uban namo nga kusog kaayo mangitag sumbagay, kining mag maoy,
ing-ana sir mangawat ing ana sir ba, kapila na sila sawayon sir nga ayaw lagi mo
pangawat kay madalasa mi ana nga wala mi labot. Mga gahi mag ulo sir mao to na
niaana ko nga dili maayo nang ing-ani, kita kuyoga unya maapil mi madalasa mi ba nga
wa miy labot. Dili man sila nga gahi mag ulo mao to sir nga ana ko bahala mo dira uy
nitiwalag ko nila atong mga January or February, brad kanya2 na lang ta a unsa inyong
iingon dira basta madakpan mo ayaw ko ninyo apila” (Some members get themselves
into trouble while some will go into stealing. But they are hardheaded even if they are
told not to do it because it will put the group in bad light. However, they will still do want
they want so I decided to quit as a member.) A number of gangs in the Philippines are
known to be active around the nation. number of gangs are known to deal in illegal
narcotics, some known criminal activities include home invasion, kidnapping and torture,
extortion, arson, grand theft auto, robberies, sale of illegal narcotics, battery assault,
shootings and numerous known & unknown homicides (Kowalzki, 2010). He also added,
“Kaun sir naay usahay sir nga good nya naa pud usahay nga mag riot2 sir ba.” (There is
good in it but at times there are riots.) He also shared, “Naa puy uban sir nga ang uban
ka brad mangita ug gubot, mangita ug sinumbagay ing-ana sir ba. Mao pud nang madala
sa ang grupo sir mao nang dili maayo sa grupo sir ba.” (There are other frat members
who often get into trouble, like fist fights sir. The group will be dragged and the result is
not good.)
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He shared that they are often united with their decisions. He said, “Wala lang sir,
kuan lang sir naay kuan sir ba for example mo ana sila nga brad mag ing ani tar on,
mag unite bitaw mi, usa ra ka huna2 sir ba, abi moana nga mag-inom ta ron, murag
ginaingon nga sabay sir ba, mao na sir” (Nothing, sir. It’s just that whenever we want to
do something or go to a place, we decide as one. But, sir, I regret that I joined a
fraternity.) Although the word “camaraderie” is a cliché defense of fraternities and
sororities, the bond that is created between members as a result is certainly visible,
durable and genuine; the relationships between brothers and sisters are bonds that last a
lifetime. Aside from having strong ties with current students, Greek organizations are
also great ways to connect and network with past and future students not only from the
chapter of the school you attended but also chapters from other schools. This unique
networking system between past, present and future students helps create opportunities as
small as shared housing and as big as future employment opportunities (Bommarit,
2012).
He narrated how difficult for him to quit and leave the organization. He shared his
willingness to break out from the the group but hesitant because of the things that he
needs to undergo. He explained, “Nya karon nag istoryahanay mi sa presidente sir ba
gianaan ko niya nga brad ug mobalik ka brad naa kay madawat nga niana siya nga bente
uno ka paddle. Niana ko nga di nako mobalik brad, ana sya nga pero tagaan taka ug quit
form. Ingon ko nga ok ra man nako nga tagaan ko ninyo ug quit form pero pa graduateta
sa ko ninyo ug high school usa ko mo quit sa kuan kay basi maka quit ko brad ba unya
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maanaan ta sa high school nga niapil sa grupo2. Pero gi process naman to nila ang
akong quit form sir, daghan man to ang mang quit sir, halos tana dri sa taga Canlaon
kay bati man kaayo ang ilang patakaran dri sir gud.” (The president and I had a talk. He
told me if I will go back to the groups I need to be paddled 21 times. I told him that I will
not join again so he told me that he will give me a quit form. I told him that I will accept
the quit form after my graduation in high school because it might be misinterpreted that I
am joining the fraternity again.) Quitting will lead people to question your integrity.
Every situation is different, but there is rarely a case when doing what you described is
acceptable (http://thefraternityadvisor.com/can-i-quit-my-fraternity-and-join-another-
one/). He also added, “Pag kuan sir gianaan mi nga mugawas mo ani nga organization
ayaw mog ingon nga nagmahay mo sa pasulod ninyo ani. Ug mogawas mo ayaw jud mo
bali ang password namo sir ba dili ra kono ikatag. Mao to sir daghan kaayong
nanggawa. Mao to sir mga pito gro mi ato. Daghan nanggawas sir pero ako mga Marso
gro ko sir. katong I initiation na pud ka sir. Bunalan pud ka sir, mga 66 ra siguro sir,
mga ing-ana gro sir.” (They warned us that when we get out of the fraternity we should
not say that we regret being a member and that we should not reveal the password. A lot
already left the group, butI might leave on March because of the initiation or goodbye
paddles. They will hit us with the paddle for at least 66 times sir.) “Kining bali ni active
to ato mga 4 months sir, kay murag gi layhan pa ko ato una sir kay bag-o pa ko ato first
time.” (I was an active member for 4 months sir, because I really like it: it was my first
time.) He also shared, “Makaluwas ka sir ok na sir. Pero daghan pud sir ang dili mapa
initiate sir, magpa kick-out na lang sila sa grupo sir ba, magdala ug bad record,
lungkab2 sila dayon mamatayg tawo, tanan nga sala ihan-ok nila sa fraternity nya mao
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to ipa kick out sila sir ba para wala nay samok sir ba. Naa man puy ing-ana ang uban sir
ba ing-ana ilang ginabuhat. Sa akoa sir initiation jud akong dawaton sir kay lain pud
kaayo sir ba.” (It’s ok sir if you will pass the initiation. Some will not undergo the
initiation and just want to be kicked out. Other will steal and kill people and blame the
fraternity.) He also added the disadvantages of being a member of fraternity. He said,
“kuan sir dili jud lalim nga mosulod ug fraternity kay lisod na ug gawas. Pareho nako
sir, dili ko maka ingong nga safe ko sir kay naa may permi mag atang nako sa gawas
wala na sir mga ka-grupo nanko sa una sir ba. Last time gani sir ila kong gi tabangan sa
gawas. : di man mi basta2 ka quit sir gud. Mao nang mubalos jud sila.” (It is not easy to
join a fraternity because it is hard to get out. As for me I am not safe because I am under
scrutiny by fraternity brother outside. They even beat me once outside. We just can’t quit
anytime.) Thefraternityadvisor.com added to keep in mind though that after you are
initiated you will have crossed the point of no return and will not be able to start or join
another fraternity. Baquilid (2010) emphasized that a fraternity or sorority is a choice of
lifestyle for a lifetime.
Being a member of the fraternity, they also have other activities that benefits the
public and society. He shared, “Naa may kaayuhan ang kuan sir, kanang magtabang-
tabang sa community parehas for example sa activities sa siudad kmi ang kuhaon pra
motabang.” (There is a good side in fraternities. For instanced, we help in the community
especially when the city taps us in their activities.) All fraternities and sororities have
community service involvement and charitable causes that they work towards. In
addition, the fraternities and sororities combine forces from time to time and work
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together on larger events (Veronica, 2009). Over the years, they've identified five
primary motivations for volunteering. The first one is volunteering to satisfy personal
values or humanitarian concerns. For some people this can have a religious component.
The next is volunteering to help a particular community, such as a neighborhood or
ethnic group, to which you feel attached. The next is volunteering to feel better about
yourself or escape other pressures. Followed by volunteering to gain a better
understanding of other people, cultures or places. The last one is volunteering to
challenge yourself, meet new people and make new friends, or further your career
(Winerman, 2006). An important and often overlooked aspect of fraternity life is
dedication to serving the community. All fraternity organizations support their own
philanthropic project. These range from working with senior citizens, the homeless, or at-
risk youth and various other charitable organizations. These projects help build moral
character among participants as well as teach them to assume their civic responsibility as
they become the leaders of our communities. Last year alone, the Fraternity System
donated over 5,000 man hours and provided monetary assistance to philanthropic events
in Knoxville and the East Tennessee area (http://fraternity.utk.edu/life.html) Here are
some of locally organize social/civic response of fraternities; Inspired by the thought of a
Noble Betan, Brod Eugenio "Gene" Gatmaitan, CLSU -71'B/Western USA and the
persuasive efforts of the National BetaPhil, the University of Negros Occidental -
Recoletos (UNO-R) Beta Sigma Fraternity had its first feeding mission activity at the
parish of San Sebastian Cathedral on the 30th day of May, where Flores de Mayo, a
Catholic festival, is annually held. In celebration of the founding anniversary of Beta
Sigma Fraternity on July 14, 2008, the Beta Sigma Fraternity and the Sigma Beta
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Sorority in Bacolod City, together with the Brgy. 33 Sanguniang Kabataan (SK) officials
headed by Brgy. 33 SK chairman hon. Nico Alipato (Son of Brod Andy Alipato UNO-R
'76), had their joint Medical and Feeding Mission last July 11, 2008
(http://www.betasigmafraternity.net/UNO-R.htm#UNORMED).
Participant 8 “Gino”
Gino’s father is a public school teacher. His mother is a businesswoman. He is 16
yrs. old, the eldest of the two children and lives with his parents and sibling. According to
Gino, he considers himself lucky for having parents who can financially support him and
his younger sister. Although he cannot immediately get what he wants. At least his
parents can provide him with what he needs in school and at home. The respondent was
sporting a tomahawk hairdo. He was wearing a loose white shirt and loose pants. He has
an earring on the right ear. The respondent has a small burn mark in the left hand.
1. “Gubot man kaayo sa balay sir gud, unya ganahan ko naay pahungawan, unya
murag dili man ko kinahanglan sa balay. Mao nang sa akong mga barkada na
lang ko sir permi gakuyog.” (There is no peace in our house and I want to have
somebody to hear my problems since I feel that I am not important to my parents.
So I always go with my friends.)
2. “Kuan man sir gud, dili open sila ni mama ug papa sir ba, ang ako rang mga
sayop ang makit-an/ My parents are not open to me.” (They always find faults in
me.)
3. “Lain kaayo sir e paminaw nako wa nay nag palangga nako sir ba, mas palangga
man nila akong manghod nga baye sir kay buotan man kno kaayo sir.” (I feel bad
sir, because nobody loves me, They are more affectionate to my younnger sister.)
4. “Mao na sir nga niapil ko sir kay ganahan man kog gubot2 sir kay sige mag
gubot sa blay sir. Di ko ganahan mouli. Bisag asa sir e, basta naay gasolina ang
motor bisag asa maabot sir e. moadto kos akong mga amigo sir, mag jam2 sir…
istoryahanay, inom2, dayon laag2 mi sir dris syudad.” (That is the reason why I
joined them sir because I like trouble since there is always trouble in our house. I
don’t like to go home anymore. I go to my friends as long as there is gasoline in
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my motorcycle and do some drinking, telling stories then roaming around in the
city.)
5. “Bag o, ra man na sir… sadya man sir gud naay gubot sumbagay, mao na akong
gipangandoy sir. Gubot sir kay murag end of the world na paminaw nako sir ba.”
(At first sir I enjoyed being involved in a fistfight, I just liked it. I felt that this is
the end of the world.)
6. “Murag na immune kos pistahan sir ba. Mag pista2 gani sir ba kay mag laban2
man gud kog gubot sir gud, mao nang murag naimmune ko sir.” (It felt like I am
immuned in town fiestas. During fiestas I would get into trouble and I think am
getting used to it.)
7. “kay ang uban sir amigo man gud nako mao nang moapil ko sa gubot dayon
sadya2 ra man sir. Unya kuan pud sir daghan ko ug amigo sir nga makasabot
nako kuan sir, naay koy murag karamay gani sir. Ug walay koy katambayan naa
sila sir ba. Dayon pareho anang naa abi koy kontra naay molaban nako sir ba.
Or ang kauban namo sir ba nga gi tabangan, abi amo pong labanan ug tabangan
sir e, alangan dili mi motabang sir ns among amigo abi sir nga gitabangan sa
uban. Daghan pud ko ug amigo sa gawas sir dayon naay mga amigo nga
makasabot nako sir dayon wala gatan-aw sa akong mga sayop sir ba.” (The other
members are my friends so I join them in any trouble because they are my friends
and I feel satisfied that they care for me and I care for them.)
8. “Kanang kuan sir gud, kanang naay koy maingon nga amigo jud sir ba. Kanang
mo tabang jud nako. Kay sa balay sir murag wala ra man koy bili nila sir.
Ganahan ra gani sila nga mamatay ko.” (That I can call a true friend who will
help me in time of need. In our house nobody cares for to me. Thtey even want
me dead.)
9. “Lain jud sir e. kay ang migo sir maayo ra man na ug okay pa ka pero ug dili na,
di na na mo damay nimo panahon nga magkalisod ka.” (Its really different sir
because a friend will be with you only in good times but when the time gets tough
they will abandon you.)
10. “kay akong grupo sir solid jud sir ya. If naay magkalisod motabang jud dayon
sila. If naay makakitag away sir ba for example motabang ug molaban nimo sir.”
(In my group sir, we are really that close. When somebody has a problem thtey
are ready to help. It I get into a quarrel they will help me.)
11. “Wala sir, nakadungag hinuon sa akong sala sir. Negative kanang maapil sa
gubot sir ba. Kay ang uban sir, amigo2 ra gani sir, sila man manguna sir gud…
mao na” (Nothing sir, it even added to my problems. Its not good to be in trouble
because other friends (acquaintances) will be the ones to start a fight. Thats it sir.)
12. “Murag wala nay epekto sa amo sa balay sir, kay sige ra man kog pabuyag sir
gud… ako ra gong ngalan permi ang naa sa among barangay sir, naabot akong
motor, ana dayon nga naa na pud ang ride. Karon na pud ni apil ug grupo2, ako
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na lang gitinuod ang ilang gi sulti sir.” (That has no effect in our house sir
because I always get into trouble such that I am always in the barangay. When my
motorcycle arrived they said that I will be joining a group. So I did what they
said)
13. “O naka apekto sa akoa sir kay daghan man ang moduol sa ako sir nga tambay
sa amoa.. moduol sa ako sir para maki amigo ra. O sir. Nadugangan akong
barkada sir kay sila man moduol nako sir.” (It affected me sir because there were
many who wanted to make friends with me. I gained more friends sine they were
the ones who come to me.)
14. “Kanang masakitan ka sir, balos ka sir e, balos sa nagsakit nimo sir e. bahalag
grupo pa na nimo sir. D ko muila og grupo.” (When you get hurt sir you take
revenge, even if they belong to your group.)
15. “Mutabang ka sir sa imong grupo sir.” (You will help the member of your
group.)

1. “Gubot man kaayo sa balay sir gud, unya ganahan ko naay pahungawan, unya
murag dili man ko kinahanglan sa balay. Mao nang sa akong mga barkada na
lang ko sir permi gakuyog.” (There is no peace in our house and I want to have
somebody to hear my problems since I feel that I am not important to my parents.
So I always go with my friends.)
2. “Kuan man sir gud, dili open sila ni mama ug papa sir ba, ang ako rang mga
sayop ang makit-an” (My parents are not open to me. They always find faults in
me.
3. “Lain kaayo sir e paminaw nako wa nay nag palangga nako sir ba, mas palangga
man nila akong manghod nga baye sir kay buotan man kno kaayo sir.” (I feel bad
sir, because nobody loves me, They are more affectionate to my younnger sister.)
4. “Murag wala nay epekto sa amo sa balay sir, kay sige ra man kog pabuyag sir
gud… ako ra gong ngalan permi ang naa sa among barangay sir, naabot akong
motor, ana dayon nga naa na pud ang ride. Karon na pud ni apil ug grupo2, ako
na lang gitinuod ang ilang gi sulti sir.” (That has no effect in our house sir
because I always get into trouble such that I am always in the barangay. When my
motorcycle arrived they said that I will be joining a group. So I did what they
said)
Belongingnes
1. “Kanang kuan sir gud, kanang naay koy maingon nga amigo jud sir ba. Kanang
mo tabang jud nako. Kay sa balay sir murag wala ra man koy bili nila sir.
Ganahan ra gani sila nga mamatay ko.” (That I can call a true friend who will
help me in time of need. In our house nobody cares for to me. They even want me
dead.)
2. “O naka apekto sa akoa sir kay daghan man ang moduol sa ako sir nga tambay
sa amoa.. moduol sa ako sir para maki amigo ra. O sir. Nadugangan akong
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barkada sir kay sila man moduol nako sir.” (It affected me sir because there were
many who wanted to make friends with me. I gained more friends sine they were
the ones who come to me.)
3. “Lain jud sir e. kay ang migo sir maayo ra man na ug okay pa ka pero ug dili na,
di na na mo damay nimo panahon nga magkalisod ka.” (Its really different sir
because a friend will be with you only in good times but when the time gets tough
they will abandon you.)
4. “Kay akong grupo sir solid jud sir ya. If naay magkalisod motabang jud dayon
sila. If naay makakitag away sir ba for example motabang ug molaban nimo sir.”
(In my group sir, we are really that close. When somebody has a problem they are
ready to help. It I get into a quarrel they will help me.)
5. “Mutabang ka sir sa imong grupo sir.” (You will help the member of your
group.)
Violence
1. “Mao na sir nga niapil ko sir kay ganahan man kog gubot2 sir kay sige mag
gubot sa blay sir. Di ko ganahan mouli. Bisag asa sir e, basta naay gasolina ang
motor bisag asa maabot sir e. moadto kos akong mga amigo sir, mag jam2 sir…
istoryahanay, inom2, dayon laag2 mi sir dris syudad.” (That is the reason why I
joined them sir because I like trouble since there is always trouble in our house. I
don’t like to go home anymore. I go to my friends as long as there is gasoline in
my motorcycle and do some drinking, telling stories then roaming around in the
city.)
2. “Bag o, ra man na sir… sadya man sir gud naay gubot sumbagay, mao na akong
gipangandoy sir. Gubot sir kay murag end of the world na paminaw nako sir ba.”
(At first sir I enjoyed being involved in a fistfight, I just liked it. I felt that this is
the end of the world.)
3. “Murag na immune kos pistahan sir ba. Mag pista2 gani sir ba kay mag laban2
man gud kog gubot sir gud, mao nang murag naimmune ko sir.” (It felt like I am
immuned in town fiestas. During fiestas I would get into trouble and I think am
getting used to it.)
4. “Kay ang uban sir amigo man gud nako mao nang moapil ko sa gubot dayon
sadya2 ra man sir. Unya kuan pud sir daghan ko ug amigo sir nga makasabot
nako kuan sir, naay koy murag karamay gani sir. Ug walay koy katambayan naa
sila sir ba. Dayon pareho anang naa abi koy kontra naay molaban nako sir ba.
Or ang kauban namo sir ba nga gi tabangan, abi amo pong labanan ug tabangan
sir e, alangan dili mi motabang sir ns among amigo abi sir nga gitabangan sa
uban. Daghan pud ko ug amigo sa gawas sir dayon naay mga amigo nga
members are my friends so I join them in any trouble because they are my friends
and I feel satisfied that they care for me and I care for them.)
5. “Wala sir, nakadungag hinuon sa akong sala sir. Negative kanang maapil sa
gubot sir ba. Kay ang uban sir, amigo2 ra gani sir, sila man manguna sir gud…
mao na” (Nothing sir, it even added to my problems. Its not good to be in trouble
because other friends (acquaintances) will be the ones to start a fight. Thats it sir.)
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6. “Kanang masakitan ka sir, balos ka sir e, balos sa nagsakit nimo sir e. bahalag
grupo pa na nimo sir. D ko muila og grupo.” (When you get hurt sir you take
revenge, even if they belong to your group.)
The themes that arised from articipant 8 were relating to the family, belongingness
and violence.
Theme 1: Relating with the Family
Participant 8 had problems at home that were expressed by his delinquent
behavior oftentimes. He shared, “Gubot man kaayo sa balay sir gud, unya ganahan ko
naay pahungawan, unya murag dili man ko kinahanglan sa balay. Mao nang sa akong
mga barkada na lang ko sir permi gakuyog.” (There is no peace in our house and I want
to have somebody to hear my problems since I feel that I am not important to my parents.
So I always go with my friends.) As mentioned by Walker (2012), when home isn’t a
place you want to go home to, it’s essential to find other places where you feel safe,
supported, and seen for who you are. He added, “Kuan man sir gud, dili open sila ni
mama ug papa sir ba, ang ako rang mga sayop ang makit-an.” (My parents are not open
to me. They always find faults in me.) If parents have been noticeably absent or
particularly cruel to a teenager during their childhood it is possible that teens may want a
degree of distance between them (http://understandingteenagers.com.au/blog/2010/05/
what-teenagersthinkofparents/). He feels that he is not love and his parent plays
favouritism among his siblings. He stated, “Lain kaayo sir e paminaw nako wa nay nag
palangga nako sir ba, mas palangga man nila akong manghod nga baye sir kay buotan
man kno kaayo sir.” (I feel bad sir, because nobody loves me, they are more affectionate
to my younnger sister.) It negatesthe need to be loved is exceptionally strong in all

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human beings. From childhood to old age, humans want to be loved by those around
them (http://www.al-islam.org /raising_children/4.htm). When asked what was the effects
at home of being a fraternity member, he said, “Murag wala nay epekto sa amo sa balay
sir, kay sige ra man kog pabuyag sir gud… ako ra gong ngalan permi ang naa sa among
barangay sir, naabot akong motor, ana dayon nga naa na pud ang ride. Karon na pud ni
apil ug grupo2, ako na lang gitinuod ang ilang gi sulti sir.” (That has no effect in our
house sir because I always get into trouble such that I am always in the barangay. When
my motorcycle arrived they said that I will be joining a group. So I did what they said)
The participant wants to have group of closed friends. I felt that he is not valued
at hoime. He shared, “Kanang kuan sir gud, kanang naay koy maingon nga amigo jud
sir ba. Kanang mo tabang jud nako. Kay sa balay sir murag wala ra man koy bili nila sir.
Ganahan ra gani sila nga mamatay ko.” (That I can call a true friend who will help me in
time of need. In our house nobody cares for to me. Thtey even want me dead.)A sense of
belongingness, self identity, status and emotional support are some positive consequences
associated with gang membership based on the studies conducted by Chesney-Lind et al,
1995; Clark, 1992; Virgil, 1988 (cited in Omizo et al, 2000). He also noticed that most
tambays in there place wanted to make friends with him. He said, “O naka apekto sa
akoa sir kay daghan man ang moduol sa ako sir nga tambay sa amoa, moduol sa ako sir
para maki amigo ra. O sir. Nadugangan akong barkada sir kay sila man moduol nako
sir.” (It affected me sir because there were many who wanted to make friends with me. I
gained more friends sine they were the ones who come to me.)
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He explained that friends are just good to you in good times. He said, “Lain jud
sir e. kay ang migo sir maayo ra man na ug okay pa ka pero ug dili na, di na na mo
damay nimo panahon nga magkalisod ka.” (It’s really different sir because a friend will
be with you only in good times but when the time gets tough they will abandon you.)
The camaraderie and support of a Fraternity and Sorority is the obvious and probably the
thing most people think of first. In fact, the friendship and community is perhaps the
major reason that students join Greek organizations (Veronica, 2009). He added, “kay
akong grupo sir solid jud sir ya. If naay magkalisod motabang jud dayon sila. If naay
makakitag away sir ba for example motabang ug molaban nimo sir.” (In my group sir,
we are really that close. When somebody has a problem thtey are ready to help. It I get
into a quarrel they will help me.) The gang provides a source of support, solidarity and
social connection, and thus fulfils some of the functions of a close-knit family unit
(White, 2009). Even though certain risks have been identified, people are still very eager
to join to gain power and protection” (Melendez, et al 2012). He also added, that they are
helpful their fratmates. He also added, “Mutabang ka sir sa imong grupo sir.” (You will
help the member of your group.)
Theme 3: Violence
He declared that he enjoys troubles. He shared, “mao na sir nga niapil ko sir kay
ganahan man kog gubot2 sir kay sige mag gubot sa blay sir. Di ko ganahan mouli. Bisag
asa sir e, basta naay gasolina ang motor bisag asa maabot sir e. moadto kos akong mga
amigo sir, mag jam2 sir… istoryahanay, inom2, dayon laag2 mi sir dris syudad.” (That
is the reason why I joined them sir because I like trouble since there is always trouble in
our house. I don’t like to go home anymore. I go to my friends as long as there is gasoline
142
in my motorcycle and do some drinking, telling stories then roaming around in the city.)
He added, “Bag o, ra man na sir… sadya man sir gud naay gubot sumbagay, mao na
akong gipangandoy sir. Gubot sir kay murag end of the world na paminaw nako sir ba.”
(At first sir I enjoyed being involved in a fistfight, I just liked it. I felt that this is the end
of the world.) He added, “Murag na immune kos pistahan sir ba. Mag pista2 gani sir ba
kay mag laban2 man gud kog gubot sir gud, mao nang murag naimmune ko sir.” (It felt
like I am immuned in town fiestas. During fiestas I would get into trouble and I think am
getting used to it.) You may think that people behave the way that they do by choice, but
in reality the environment plays a critical role (Amy.B., 2009). Attitudes form directly as
a result of experience. They may emerge due to direct personal experience, or they may
result from observation. Social roles and social norms can have a strong influence on
attitudes (Cherry, 2007). Teenagers are especially prone to environmental influences
because they are still being formed as persons, and the cruel reality is that many struggle
daily for acceptance from their peers (Hartnett 2007). He justified that he gets involved
with the troubles of his friends and he enjoys it. He said, “kay ang uban sir amigo man
gud nako mao nang moapil ko sa gubot dayon sadya2 ra man sir. Unya kuan pud sir
daghan ko ug amigo sir nga makasabot nako kuan sir, naay koy murag karamay gani sir.
Ug walay koy katambayan naa sila sir ba. Dayon pareho anang naa abi koy kontra naay
molaban nako sir ba. Or ang kauban namo sir ba nga gi tabangan, abi amo pong
labanan ug tabangan sir e, alangan dili mi motabang sir ns among amigo abi sir nga
gitabangan sa uban. Daghan pud ko ug amigo sa gawas sir dayon naay mga amigo nga
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members are my friends so I join them in any trouble because they are my friends and I
feel satisfied that they care for me and I care for them.)
He knows that fraternity only aggravated his blunders. He shares, “Wala sir,
nakadungag hinuon sa akong sala sir. Negative kanang maapil sa gubot sir ba. Kay ang
uban sir, amigo2 ra gani sir, sila man manguna sir gud… mao na” (Nothing sir, it even
added to my problems. Its not good to be in trouble because other friends (acquaintances)
will be the ones to start a fight. That’s it sir.) He added, “Kanang masakitan ka sir, balos
ka sir e, balos sa nagsakit nimo sir e. bahalag grupo pa na nimo sir. Di ko muila og
grupo.” (When you get hurt sir you take revenge, even if they belong to your group.)
Participant 9 “Keith”
The respondent is neat although his clothing is obviously old. He was wearing
rubber bracelets. The respondent smoked cigarette prior to the interview. The interviewer
did not notice any tattoo or marked on the respondent’s hands that would identify him as
a frat member.
1. “Dili man ko sir close sa akong papa kay disciplinarian kaayo sir. Unya ug ma
gabin an kog uli sir kay bunalan ko niya. Galagot ko sa akong amahan sir. Pero
sir mas close ko ni mama siya man ang mo laban nako sa akong papa sir. Maayo
ra pud ang akong relasyon sa akong mga igsoon.” (I’m not close to my father.
When I come home late he punishes me but I’m close to my mother. She always
defends me. My relation with my siblings is okay.)
2. “Gi invite ra man ko sir sa akong best friend, akong amigo sir ba gikan pa
elementary nga mo intra. Una-una sir ga duha-duha ko sir kon mo intra./ kita
man gud ko sir unsa sila ka close sir ba. Unya nangita pud ko ug kanang barkada
sir ba para naa pud koy ka share-ran sa akong mga problema. Naa koy
katambayan o makauban sa sir ba.” (I was invited by my friend to join. At first I
was undecided if I will join. But then I want to have more friends with whom I
can share my problems.)
3. “Kanang kuan sir, naa koy ka share-ran sa akong problema nga personal ug
problema sa balay sir. Dayon kon kinahanglan ko ug kwarta sir for example sa
school projects nya wala ikahatag sila mama ug papa ang akong mga kauban sa
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fraternity usahay motabang nako sir. Dayon ug naay mo laban niya ug naay
magdaug-daug niya sa eskwelahan.” (So I can have somebody to share with my
problems. Sometimes if I have no money for my projects my fellow fraternity
members will help me.)
4. “Wala man gud koy barkada o amigo jud sir ba, so ug naa kos fraternity naa koy
amigo nga mo unong kano sa kalipay ug kalisod. Basta kuyog nako akong ka
grupo paminaw nako secure ko sir ba, walay pwede nga mo hilabot nako. Unya
naa pud koy tsansa nga maka ila ila ug lang mga membro gikan sa uban nga
eskwelahan.” (I have no friends, so being in the fraternity make me secure and
have a chance to make friends with other member of other schools)
5. “Akong na sinati nga naa koy murag extended family sa akong mga ka brad sir.”
(I feel that my fellow frat members part of my extended family.)
6. “Kuan sir naa man gud miy saad sir nga dili jud mo biya sa grupo. Dili ka basta
ka hawa sir ba. Naay mga rights sir ba… naay kay dawaton nga paddle sir. Pero
dili jud na ang pina ka main nako nga rason nganong nidugay ko .sir.” ( We
have a vow not to leave our group. It’s not easy to leave. You will expect a paddle
sir. But that is not the main reason why I stayed long with the group.)
7. “Lain ang panglantaw sa mga teachers sir namo ila mi gina judge nga mga
mahilig ug gubot ug mga bad influence sa uban nga estudyante. Ang uban nga
mga ginikanan ga suspetsa nga mga drugista mi ug daug-daugan.” (We were
labeled by our teachers as troublemakers and a bad influence to our fellow
students. Some parents even suspect us to be bullies and drug users.)
8. “Dili sir uy… dili man mi manghilabot basta dili ra jud mi unahan. Kay ug naay
manguna namo mo laban ma jud na ang among ka brad.” (No sir. We usually do
not start a fight. It only happens if others will challenge us. We will hep our
fraternity brother if ever oneof our brothers get inot a fight.)
9. “Si papa sir wala jud nay ideya sir, si mama wala pud kabalo… pero murag ga
duda na siguro si mama. Pero wala man pud ni confrontar si mama nako kabahin
sa akong pag intra sa fraternity.” (My father does not know anything and so with
my mother but I think she suspects that I joined a fraternity. But she did not
confront me about it.)
10. “Kay sekreto man gud sir gud, ana man ang among leader nga dili mi manugid
sa uban nga niintra mi ug fraternity. Wala gani mi gi butangan ug marka kay
high school pa mi, kay dili man diay pwede ang high school sa frat sir” (We kept
it as a secret, sir because we were warned not to tell that we are members of a
fraternity. We were not even given a mark since we are still in highschool because
high school students are not allowedto join a fraternity.)
11. “Kuan man sir na pasubo na sir ba. Dili na man pwede ka back-out.” (We are
now in a point of no return. We are not allowed to back out anymore.)
12. “Ang pagka membro sa fraternity murag pribilihiyo sir ba kay ang ubang
membro sa fraternity naa man sa mga middle class nga pamilya unya ang uban
mga pigado jud.” (Being a member of a fraternity seems to be a privilege sir
because the members are children of middle class families but there are also from
the poor ones.)
13. “Ang mga ka frat namo sir wala man ga pang discriminate nako sir bisag pigado
ra mi, unya ila kong gidawat ug ilang pud kong gipaminaw.” (Our fellow frat
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members do not discriminate mi even if I’m poor They have accepted me and
they even listened to me.)
14. “Makaingon ko sir nga ang paka membro sa fraternity dili dayon masulti nga
biolente na ka o maldito, ug dili pud irresponsable sa pag eskwela.” (All I can
say sir is that being a member does not mean that you are violent or naughty or
take your studies for granted.
15. “Kuan pud sir, dili ta mi e judge sa mga tawo sa among pagka membro sa
fraternity sir, dayon ang among pagka membro sa fraternity dili ma sulti nga mga
maldito na mi ug.” (We should not be judged as members of a fraternity that we
are already troublemakers.)
Relating to the family

1. “Dili man ko sir close sa akong papa kay disciplinarian kaayo sir. Unya ug ma
gabin an kog uli sir kay bunalan ko niya. Galagot ko sa akong amahan sir. Pero
sir mas close ko ni mama siya man ang mo laban nako sa akong papa sir. Maayo
ra pud ang akong relasyon sa akong mga igsoon.” (I’m not close to my father.
When I come home late he punishes me but I’m close to my mother. She always
defends me. My relation with my siblings is okay.)
Belongingness
1. “Gi invite ra man ko sir sa akong best friend, akong amigo sir ba gikan pa
elementary nga mo intra. Una-una sir ga duha-duha ko sir kon mo intra./ kita
man gud ko sir unsa sila ka close sir ba. Unya nangita pud ko ug kanang barkada
sir ba para naa pud koy ka share-ran sa akong mga problema. Naa koy
katambayan o makauban sa sir ba. ( I was invited by my friend to join. At first I
was undecided if I will join. But then I want to have more friend with whom I can
share my problems.)
2. “Kanang kuan sir, naa koy ka share-ran sa akong problema nga personal ug
problema sa balay sir. Dayon kon kinahanglan ko ug kwarta sir for example sa
school projects nya wala ikahatag sila mama ug papa ang akong mga kauban sa
fraternity usahay motabang nako sir. Dayon ug naay mo laban niya ug naay
magdaug-daug niya sa eskwelahan.” (So I can have somebody to share with my
problems. Sometimes if I have no money for my projects my fellow fraternity
members will help me.)
3. “Akong na sinati nga naa koy murag extended family sa akong mga ka brad sir.”
(I feel that my fellow frat members are part of my extended family.)
4. “Kuan sir naa man gud miy saad sir nga dili jud mo biya sa grupo. Dili ka basta
ka hawa sir ba. Naay mga rights sir ba… naay kay dawaton nga paddle sir. Pero
dili jud na ang pina ka main nako nga rason nganong nidugay ko .sir.” ( We
have a vow not to leave our group. It’s not easy to leave. You will expect a paddle
sir. But that is not the main reason why I stayed long wiwth the group.)
5. “Wala man gud koy barkada o amigo jud sir ba, so ug naa kos fraternity naa koy
amigo nga mo unong kano sa kalipay ug kalisod. Basta kuyog nako akong ka
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grupo paminaw nako secure ko sir ba, walay pwede nga mo hilabot nako. Unya
naa pud koy tsansa nga maka ila ila ug lang mga membro gikan sa uban nga
eskwelahan.” (I have no friends, so being in the fraternity make me secure and
have a chance to make friends with other member of other schools)
6. “Ang mga ka frat namo sir wala man ga pang discriminate nako sir bisag pigado
ra mi, unya ila kong gidawat ug ilang pud kong gipaminaw.” (Our fellow frat
members do not discriminate mi even if I’m poor They have accepted me and
they even listened to me.)
Social Stigma
1. “Lain ang panglantaw sa mga teachers sir namo ila mi gina judge nga mga
mahilig ug gubot ug mga bad influence sa uban nga estudyante. Ang uban nga
mga ginikanan ga suspetsa nga mga drugista mi ug daug-daugan.” (We were
labeled by our teachers as troublemakers and a bad influence to our fell0ow
students. Some parents even suspect us to be bullies and drug users.)
2. “Dili sir uy… dili man mi manghilabot basta dili ra jud mi unahan. Kay ug naay
manguna namo mo laban ma jud na ang among ka brad.” (No sir. We usually do
not start a fight. It only happens if others will challenge us. We will hep our
fraternity brother if ever oneof our brothers get inot a fight.)
3. “Makaingon ko sir nga ang paka membro sa fraternity dili dayon masulti nga
biolente na ka o maldito, ug dili pud irresponsable sa pag eskwela.” (All I can
say sir is that being a member does not mean that you are violent or naughty or
take your studies for granted.
4. “Kuan pud sir, dili ta mi e judge sa mga tawo sa among pagka membro sa
maldito na mi ug.” (We should not be judged as members of a fraternity that we
are already troublemakers.)
Secret Life
1. “Si papa sir wala jud nay ideya sir, si mama wala pud kabalo… pero murag ga
duda na siguro si mama. Pero wala man pud ni confrontar si mama nako kabahin
sa akong pag intra sa fraternity.” (My father does not know anything and so with
my mother but I think she suspects that I joined a fraternity. But she did not
confront me about it.)
2. “Kay sekreto man gud sir gud, ana man ang among leader nga dili mi manugid
sa uban nga niintra mi ug fraternity. Wala gani mi gi butangan ug marka kay
high school pa mi, kay dili man diay pwede ang high school sa frat sir” (We kept
it as a secret sir because we were warned not to tell that we are members of a
fraternity. We were not even given a mark since we are still in highschool because
high school students are not allowedto join a fraternity.)
Standing to my decision
1. “Kuan man sir na pasubo na sir ba. Dili na man pwede ka back-out.” (We are
now in a point of no return. We are not allowed to back out anymore.)
Personal Gain
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1. “Ang pagka membro sa fraternity murag pribilihiyo sir ba kay ang ubang
membro sa fraternity naa man sa mga middle class nga pamilya unya ang uban
mga pigado jud.” (Being a member of a fraternity seems to be a privilege sir
because the members are children of middle class families but there are also from
the poor ones.)
The themes to emerge from Participant 9 were relating to the family,
belongingness, fear of threats, social stigma, secret life, commitment tod stay and
privilege.
Theme 1: Relating to the Family
He explained his relationship with his parents. The participant admitted that he is
not close to his father but he is with his mother. He said, “Dili man ko sir close sa akong
papa kay disciplinarian kaayo sir. Unya ug ma gabin an kog uli sir kay bunalan ko niya.
Galagot ko sa akong amahan sir. Pero sir mas close ko ni mama siya man ang mo laban
nako sa akong papa sir. Maayo ra pud ang akong relasyon sa akong mga igsoon.” (I’m
not close to my father. When I come home late he punishes me but I’m close to my
mother. She always defends me. My relation with my siblings is okay.) As mentioned by
Walker (2012), when home isn’t a place you want to go home to, it’s essential to find
other places where you feel safe, supported, and seen for who you are.
He stated that his best friend was the one who invited him to join the group and he
wanted to gain more friends. One of the most powerful influences on young people today
is their need to belong—to fit in and to be accepted by those they consider to be their
peers (Gregston, 2011) He narrated, “Gi invite ra man ko sir sa akong best friend, akong
amigo sir ba gikan pa elementary nga mo intra. Una-una sir ga duha-duha ko sir kon mo
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intra./ kita man gud ko sir unsa sila ka close sir ba. Unya nangita pud ko ug kanang
barkada sir ba para naa pud koy ka share-ran sa akong mga problema. Naa koy
katambayan o makauban sa sir ba.” (I was invited by my friend to join. At first I was
undecided if I will join. But then I want to have more friends with whom I can share my
problems.) He wanted somebody whom he can relate and share his problem with. He
said, “Kanang kuan sir, naa koy ka share-ran sa akong problema nga personal ug
problema sa balay sir. Dayon kon kinahanglan ko ug kwarta sir for example sa school
projects nya wala ikahatag sila mama ug papa ang akong mga kauban sa fraternity
usahay motabang nako sir. Dayon ug naay mo laban niya ug naay magdaug-daug niya
sa eskwelahan.” (So I can have somebody to share with my problems. Sometimes if I
have no money for my projects my fellow fraternity members will help me.) He also felt
that his fraternity brothers are like his extended family. He shared, “Akong na sinati nga
naa koy murag extended family sa akong mga ka brad sir.” (I feel that my fellow frat
members are part of my extended family.)
He shared that they have a promise to be together. He said, “Kuan sir naa man
gud miy saad sir nga dili jud mo biya sa grupo. Dili ka basta ka hawa sir ba. Naay mga
rights sir ba… naay kay dawaton nga paddle sir. Pero dili jud na ang pina ka main nako
nga rason nganong nidugay ko .sir.” (We have a vow not to leave our group. It’s not
easy to leave. You will expect a paddle sir. But that is not the main reason why I stayed
long with the group.) The camaraderie and support of a Fraternity and Sorority is the
obvious and probably the thing most people think of first. In fact, the friendship and
community is perhaps the major reason that students join Greek organizations. The
benefits of this support system cannot be underestimated (Veronica, 2008). He also

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added, “Wala man gud koy barkada o amigo jud sir ba, so ug naa kos fraternity naa koy
amigo nga mo unong kano sa kalipay ug kalisod. Basta kuyog nako akong ka grupo
paminaw nako secure ko sir ba, walay pwede nga mo hilabot nako. Unya naa pud koy
tsansa nga maka ila ila ug lang mga membro gikan sa uban nga eskwelahan.” (I have no
friends, so being in the fraternity make me secure and have a chance to make friends with
other member of other schools). He also added that his fraternity brothers do not
discriminate him event he is not that financially blessed. He said, “Ang mga ka frat
namo sir wala man ga pang discriminate nako sir bisag pigado ra mi, unya ila kong
gidawat ug ilang pud kong gipaminaw.” (Our fellow frat members do not discriminate mi
even if I’m poor they have accepted me and they even listened to me.)
People see fraternity negatively and often associates its members as bad. He
elucidated how teachers generalized them to be violent. He shared, “Lain ang
panglantaw sa mga teachers sir namo ila mi gina judge nga mga mahilig ug gubot ug
mga bad influence sa uban nga estudyante. Ang uban nga mga ginikanan ga suspetsa
nga mga drugista mi ug daug-daugan.” (We were labeled by our teachers as
troublemakers and a bad influence to our fellow students. Some parents even suspect us
to be bullies and drug users.) He also added that his group are not trouble makers. He
declared, “Dili sir uy… dili man mi manghilabot basta dili ra jud mi unahan. Kay ug
naay manguna namo mo laban ma jud na ang among ka brad.” (No, sir. We usually do
not start a fight. It only happens if others will challenge us. We will hep our fraternity
brother if ever oneof our brothers get inot a fight.) This thought migh be fuelled by the
following reports and studies: Fraternities here in the Philippines have a “stigma”
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according to Dela Cruz (2008). That is, people think that fraternities have nothing to do
any good for you. It involves in frat wars, murders and any kind of crimes. He also added
that being a fratmen, especially when you are member of a big fraternity is risky and
dangerous. It is true that these big frats made services to people. Sparks (2011) added that
fraternities spend a great deal of their time socializing, mixing with other groups and
spending time drinking, which creates the perfect backdrop for fights and social drama.
Comacket et al (2010) made mention on the increase in the number of aboriginal street
gang members who indulge in gang wars and shooting. He justified that not all
fraternities are violent and people should not generalized them. He explained,
“Makaingon ko sir nga ang paka membro sa fraternity dili dayon masulti nga biolente na
ka o maldito, ug dili pud irresponsable sa pag eskwela.” (All I can say sir is that being a
member does not mean that you are violent or naughty or take your studies for granted).
He also added, “Kuan pud sir, dili ta mi e judge sa mga tawo sa among pagka membro sa
maldito na mi ug.” (We should not be judged as members of a fraternity that we are
already troublemakers.)
Teenagers nowadays are very secretive. They are hesitant to share their
experiences with to their parents. The participant shared, “Si papa sir wala jud nay ideya
sir, si mama wala pud kabalo… pero murag ga duda na siguro si mama. Pero wala man
pud ni confrontar si mama nako kabahin sa akong pag intra sa fraternity.” (My father
does not know anything and so with my mother but I think she suspects that I joined a
fraternity. But she did not confront me about it.)

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Because of the clandestine nature of fraternity teenagers are often engrossed of
what is in store for them inside the Greek Community. Keith shared, “Kay sekreto man
gud sir gud, ana man ang among leader nga dili mi manugid sa uban nga niintra mi ug
fraternity. Wala gani mi gi butangan ug marka kay high school pa mi, kay dili man diay
pwede ang high school sa frat sir” (We kept it as a secret sir because we were warned
not to tell that we are members of a fraternity. We were not even given a mark since we
are still in highschool because high school students are not allowedto join a fraternity.)
The clandestine nature of the institution is part of the explanation why many do not
imagine that they are not taking part in an institution (Fink, 2005).
Theme 5: Commitment to Stay
An article that looks at a study by Cornell University, which found that most
adolescents make unwise choices after heavily weighing the pros and cons. They engage
in high-risk behavior because they think the benefits, such as immediate gratification or
peer acceptance, outweigh the risks (Whelan, 2007). In addition, an adolescent’s brain
development is not complete. Often the last part of the brain to develop is the frontal
cortex, or the section of the brain that aids in decision-making and impulse control. This
may lead many teens—who are trying to learn a new world of complex decisions—to
make choices quickly or impulsively without a lot of critical thought (Newby and Snyder,
2009). He explained, “Kuan man sir na pasubo na sir ba. Dili na man pwede ka back-
out.” (We are now in a point of no return. We are not allowed to back out anymore.)
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Keith considers his membership to his fraternity a privilege because others do not
have the opportunity to be in his group. “Ang pagka membro sa fraternity murag
pribilihiyo sir ba kay ang ubang membro sa fraternity naa man sa mga middle class nga
pamilya unya ang uban mga pigado jud.” (Being a member of a fraternity seems to be a
privilege sir because the members are children of middle class families but there are also
from the poor ones.) A sense of belongingness, self identity, status and emotional support
are some positive consequences associated with gang membership based on the studies
conducted by Chesney-Lind et al. 1995; Clark, 1992; Virgil, 1988 (cited in Omizo et al.
2000). The gang provides a source of support, solidarity and social connection, and thus
fulfils some of the functions of a close-knit family unit (White, 2009). The benefits of
being in a fraternity are that you are brothers, living with a common direction, Gummig
said in Gonzalez 2009. As stated by Tristan Zantua, joining fraternities is like joining a
powerful group in a university. Even though certain risks have been identified, people are
still very eager to join to gain power and protection” (Melendez, et al 2012). Arceelee
(2010) added that the frat also has the duty to protect its members.
Participant 10 “Rolly”
The respondent wore a black shirt, black pants and a pair of slippers during the
actual interview. He has a piece of earring on the left ear and a “skull ring” on the middle
finger of the right hand. He is a bit cocky and seems to be proud of his affiliation with the
fraternity.
1. “Lisod moduol ni mama sir kay strikto man gud ug disciplinarian sir ba. Lisod
ma follow sa iyang mga expectations, mag away mi ni mama kabahin sa kwarta
sir ug ang pagdisciplina sa akong mga manghod. wala naman gud si papa sir nga
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akong murag amigo sir ba. Kami man to ang body body sir gud.” (Its vewry
difficult to approach my mother because she very strict. Its very hard to realize
her expectations. We sometimes quarrel about money and the way she disciplines
my sisters. I have no more father and he was the one who is close to me.)
2. “kuan sir naa koy amigo nga naka apil na sa grupo unya iya kong gi invite nga
mointra pud. Una-una sir dili ta ko, but na conbenser ko sa akong amigo nga mo
apil. I have a friend who was a member and he was the one who invited me to
join.” (At first I refused, but later on I was convinced to join.)
3. “Mao na to dayon sir, after a week man to nga ni ok ko ila kong gi initiate.” (So
after one week they made me undergo the initiation)
4. “Gibasahan mi ug unsa ang among gisudlan dayon ug unsa among dangatan kon
mugawas mi.” (They oriented us about what we have joined and what will happen
to us if we will leave the group.)
5. “Naka blind fold man mi ato sir, dayon gisugodan mi ug bunal. kuan sir sakit sir
e.” (We were blindfolded sir then they started hitting us. It was very painful sir.)
6. “Sir, kanang gadali nako nga mahuman wala na bitaw sunod inug human ato,
dayon masulod na kos fraternity.I was in a hurry to finish the initiation sir”
(Anyway once I pass the initiation I already become a member of the fratiernity.)
7. “wala sir, wala jud na kabalo si mama kay dili man pud ko manugid niya. Dayon
busy pud na siya sa among negosyo pra sa among pamilya mao nang wala na
siyay panahon paghibalo sa among mga activities.” (No, sir. I did not tell my
mother that I am a member. Besides she is so busy so she does not know anything
about my activities.)
8. “Na curious lang ko sir unsay naa sulod sa fraternity kay tungod pud sa akong
amigo nga nag imbitar nako sir.” (I was just curious and it’s also because of the
invitation from my friend.)
9. “Ganahan maka amigo ug gikan sa ubang school sir. Dayon ganahan pud ko nga
naa koy connections tungod kay daghan man sa membro sa among frat ang mga
professional. Ganahan ko nga modaghan akong friends sir ba nga mura na nakog
pamilya gani sir kay tanang namong parente sir kay tua man gud sa Mindanao.”
(I like to befriend students from other schools. And I also want to have
connections because other members of our fraternity are already professionals. I
wanted to have many friends that are like family to me because most of our
relatives are in Mindanao.)
10. “Dili man sa ingon ana sir. Lain jud sir sa frat sir kay naa na man gud daan,
mointra na lang ka den daghan na ka amigo.” (It’s not like that, sir. It’s different
in the fraternity because once you become a member you instantly gain many
friends.)
11. “Kanang naa nakoy maingon sir nga pamilya nako sir ba. Murag safety ko sir ba
kay daghan kog kauban sa frat sir, ang uban kay professional pa sir.” (So that I
can have somebody I can call my family. I feel secured because I belong to a big
group and there are members who are already professionals.)
12. “Daghan mo protektar nako sir if naay mang atraso nako sir. Dayon gatabang
pud sila nako sir sa akong mga projects sa eskwelahan, murag bayanihan sir b a.
dayon confident ko sir nga maka kita kog trabaho sa future because naa koy mga
ka frat nga nagtrabaho sa dagkong companya.” (There will be many who will
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protect me if in case I get into trouble sir. They they also help me if I have
projects in school and I feel confident that I will land a job in the future because I
have a fraternity members working in big companies)
13. “Nidugay ko sir kay akong nga batyagan nga accepted ko nila sir. Kanang walay
condition sir ba. Dayon tungod pud sa mga benefisyo nga akong nakuha sa
pagpasakop sa fraternity.” (I stayed for a long time because I feel that they
accepted me without any condition and because of the benefits I received from
them.)
14. “Kuan sir sadya man gud sir basta kuyog ko nila. Kanang magkatapok mi sir.”
(I enjoyed as long as I am with them sir. When we are together sir.)
15. “Basta mag tapok mi sir usahay mag-inom, dayon mag istoryahanay sir dayon,
kuan sir usahay mag outing, for example anniversary sa among grupo or naay
birthday sa among ka frat sir.” (When we are together we sometimes drink and
tell stories. Sometimes we also go into during anniversaries or if some members
have their birthday.)
16. “Kuan sir, lain man gud ang panan-awan sa mga tawo basta frat member ka.
Unya naka apekto ni nako kon naa koy baye nga ganahan panguyaban, dili sila
ganahan nako kay membro lagi ko ug fraternity.” (Sometimes people think that
being a member of a fraternity is bad. It affected me especially if I court a girl that
I like. They will not accept me because I am a fraternity member.)
17. “Dili pud nako ma blame ang ubang tawo sir sa ing ana nga pana-aw namo nga
frat member kay ang uban namong kauban sa grupo sir naa man guy mga kontra
sa uban nga fraternity mao na nga naay gubot usahay.” (I cannot blame them sir
if that is what they think of us because some of us have enemies with other
fraternities which sometimes results in fistfights.)
18. “Dili tanan nga frat member mga dungol sir ug wala ga sulod sa klase.” (Not all
frat members are troublemakers and do not atted school.)
19. “Dayon, kuan sir, dako kaayo ang risgo ang pagka membro ug fraternity sir kay
wala ka kaila kung kinsa ang kontra ug dili kontra sa imong grupo.” (Then sir, it
is very risky to join a fraternity because you do not know who are the friends and
enemies of your group.)

1. “Lisod moduol ni mama sir kay strikto man gud ug disciplinarian sir ba. Lisod
ma follow sa iyang mga expectations, mag away mi ni mama kabahin sa kwarta
sir ug ang pagdisciplina sa akong mga manghod. wala naman gud si papa sir nga
akong murag amigo sir ba. Kami man to ang body body sir gud.” (It’s very
difficult to approach my mother because she very strict. Its very hard to realize
her expectations. We sometimes quarrel about money and the way she disciplines
my sisters. I have no more father and he was the one who is close to me.)
2. “wala sir, wala jud na kabalo si mama kay dili man pud ko manugid niya. Dayon
busy pud na siya sa among negosyo pra sa among pamilya mao nang wala na
siyay panahon paghibalo sa among mga activities.” (No sir, I did not tell my
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mother that I am a member. Besides she is so busy so She did not know anything
about my activities.)
Belongingness
1. “kuan sir naa koy amigo nga naka apil na sa grupo unya iya kong gi invite nga
mointra pud. Una-una sir dili ta ko, but na conbenser ko sa akong amigo nga mo
apil.” (I have a friend who was a member and he was the one who invited me to
join. At first I refused, but later on I was convinced to join.)
2. “Ganahan maka amigo ug gikan sa ubang school sir. Dayon ganahan pud ko nga
naa koy connections tungod kay daghan man sa membro sa among frat ang mga
professional. Ganahan ko nga modaghan akong friends sir ba nga mura na nakog
pamilya gani sir kay tanang namong parente sir kay tua man gud sa Mindanao.”
(I like to befriend students from other schools. And I also want to have
connections because other members of our fraternity are already professionals. I
wanted to have many friends that are like family to me because most of our
relatives are in Mindanao.)
3. “Dili man sa ingon ana sir. Lain jud sir sa frat sir kay naa na man gud daan,
mointra na lang ka den daghan na ka amigo.” (It’s not like that sir. It’s different
in the fraternity because once you become a member you instantly gain many
friends.)
4. “Nidugay ko sir kay akong nga batyagan nga accepted ko nila sir. Kanang walay
condition sir ba. Dayon tungod pud sa mga benefisyo nga akong nakuha sa
pagpasakop sa fraternity.” (I stayed for a long time because I feel that they
accepted me without any condition and because of the benefits I received from
them.)
Rite of passage
1. “Mao na to dayon sir, after a week man to nga ni ok ko ila kong gi initiate.” (So
after one week they made me undergo the initiation)
2. “Gibasahan mi ug unsa ang among gisudlan dayon ug unsa among dangatan kon
mugawas mi.” (They oriented us about what we have joined and what will happen
to us if we will leave the group.)
3. “Naka blind fold man mi ato sir, dayon gisugodan mi ug bunal. kuan sir sakit sir
e.” (We were blindfolded sir then they started hitting us. It was very painful sir.)
4. “Sir, kanang gadali nako nga mahuman wala na bitaw sunod inug human ato,
dayon masulod na kos fraternity.I was in a hurry to finish the initiation sir”
(Anyway once I pass the initiation I already become a member of the fratiernity.)
Curiosity
1. “Na curious lang ko sir unsay naa sulod sa fraternity kay tungod pud sa akong
amigo nga nag imbitar nako sir.” (I was just curious and it’s also because of the
invitation from my friend.)
Protection
1. “Kanang naa nakoy maingon sir nga pamilya nako sir ba. Murag safety ko sir ba
kay daghan kog kauban sa frat sir, ang uban kay professional pa sir.” (So that I
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can have somebody I can call as my family. I feel secured because I belong to a
big group and there are members who are already professionals.)
2. “Daghan mo protektar nako sir if naay mang atraso nako sir. Dayon gatabang
pud sila nako sir sa akong mga projects sa eskwelahan, murag bayanihan sir b a.
dayon confident ko sir nga maka kita kog trabaho sa future because naa koy mga
ka frat nga nagtrabaho sa dagkong companya.” (There will be many who will
protect me if in case I get into trouble sir. They they also help me if I have
projects in school and I feel confident that I will land a job in the future because I
have fraternity members working in big companies)
Fun filled Activities

1. “Kuan sir sadya man gud sir basta kuyog ko nila. Kanang magkatapok mi sir.”
(I enjoyed as long as I am with them sir. When we are together sir.)
2. “Basta mag tapok mi sir usahay mag-inom, dayon mag istoryahanay sir dayon,
kuan sir usahay mag outing, for example anniversary sa among grupo or naay
birthday sa among ka frat sir.” (When we are together we sometimes drink and
tell stories. Sometimes we also go into outings for example during anniversaries
or if some members have their birthday.)
Social Stigma
1. “Kuan sir, lain man gud ang panan-awan sa mga tawo basta frat member ka.
Unya naka apekto ni nako kon naa koy baye nga ganahan panguyaban, dili sila
ganahan nako kay membro lagi ko ug fraternity.” (Sometimes people think that
being a member of a fraternity is bad. It affected me especially if I court a girl that
I like. They will not accept me because I am a fraternity member.)
2. “Dili pud nako ma blame ang ubang tawo sir sa ing ana nga pana-aw namo nga
frat member kay ang uban namong kauban sa grupo sir naa man guy mga kontra
sa uban nga fraternity mao na nga naay gubot usahay.” (I cannot blame the sir if
that is what they think of us because some of us have enemies with other
fraternities which sometimes results in fistfights.)
3. “Dili tanan nga frat member mga dungol sir ug wala ga sulod sa klase.” (Not all
frat members are troublemakers and do not atted school.)
Risky lifestyle
1. “Dayon, kuan sir, dako kaayo ang risgo ang pagka membro ug fraternity sir kay
wala ka kaila kung kinsa ang kontra ug dili kontra sa imong grupo.” (Then sir, it
is very risky to join a fraternity because you do not know who are the friends and
enemies of your group.)
The themes to emerge from Participant 10 were relating to the family,
belongingness, rite of passage, curiosity, protection, fun filled activities, social stigma
and risky lifestyle.

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Theme 1: Relating To Family
He described his relationship with his mother and father. He said he is distant to
her mother and he is more closed to his father. He shared, “Lisod moduol ni mama sir
kay strikto man gud ug disciplinarian sir ba. Lisod ma follow sa iyang mga expectations,
mag away mi ni mama kabahin sa kwarta sir ug ang pagdisciplina sa akong mga
manghod. wala naman gud si papa sir nga akong murag amigo sir ba. Kami man to ang
body body sir gud.” (It’s very difficult to approach my mother because she very strict. It
is very hard to realize her expectations, we sometimes quarrel about money and the way
she disciplines my sisters. I have no more father and he is the one who is close to me.)
According to Lombardi (2012), studies reveal that boys who do not bond securely with
their mothers in the infant years act much more hostile, destructive and aggressive later in
life. A close bond with their moms when boys were young helped prevent delinquency
when they were older. He also shared, “wala sir, wala jud na kabalo si mama kay dili
man pud ko manugid niya. Dayon busy pud na siya sa among negosyo pra sa among
pamilya mao nang wala na siyay panahon paghibalo sa among mga activities.” (No sir, I
did not tell my mother that I am a member. Besides she is so busy so she does not know
anything about my activities.)
He shared, “kuan sir naa koy amigo nga naka apil na sa grupo unya iya kong gi
invite nga mointra pud. Una-una sir dili ta ko, but na conbenser ko sa akong amigo nga
mo apil.” (I have a friend who was a member and he was the one who invited me to join.
At first I refused, but later on I was convinced to join.) It appears that his friend strongly
influence him to be involved in fraternity. Adolescents participate in a complex social

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a member of the group (B. Newman, B. Lohman, P. Newman, 2012). Even though he live
with his parents, his need to belong to was not satisfied that’s why they look for it outside
and they often find it with his friends. He added, “Ganahan maka amigo ug gikan sa
ubang school sir. Dayon ganahan pud ko nga naa koy connections tungod kay daghan
man sa membro sa among frat ang mga professional. Ganahan ko nga modaghan akong
friends sir ba nga mura na nakog pamilya gani sir kay tanang namong parente sir kay
tua man gud sa Mindanao.” (I like to befriend students from other schools. And I also
want to have connections because other members of our fraternity are already
professionals. I wanted to have many friends that are like family to me because most of
our relatives are in Mindanao.) Fraternity fulfills the need of students to belong to an
extended family and frequently provides the opportunity to enhance those personal
relationships through group living situations (http://www.kappasigma.org/content/
mission-statement). A lawyer who joined a frat when he was in college said a fraternity is
an extended family. “When you take the bar exam they take care of you in terms of
review materials and billet you in a hotel to prepare you for the bar,” the lawyer, who
also did not want to be named, said (Postrado, 2012). He also reiterated that it is different
to be in fraternity, He said, “Dili man sa ingon ana sir. Lain jud sir sa frat sir kay naa na
man gud daan, mointra na lang ka den daghan na ka amigo.” (It’s not like that sir. It’s
different in the fraternity because once you become a member you instantly gain many
friends.) He feels accepted, “Nidugay ko sir kay akong nga batyagan nga accepted ko
nila sir. Kanang walay condition sir ba. Dayon tungod pud sa mga benefisyo nga akong
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nakuha sa pagpasakop sa fraternity.” (I stayed for a long time because I feel that they
accepted me without any condition and because of the benefits I received from them.)
Theme 3: Rite of Passage
He shared that after one week he was then iniated. He said, “Mao na to dayon sir,
after a week man to nga ni ok ko ila kong gi initiate.” (So after that after one week they
made me undewrgo the initiation). He continued to opened up, “Gibasahan mi ug unsa
ang among gisudlan dayon ug unsa among dangatan kon mugawas mi.” (They oriented
us about what we have joined and what will happen to us if we will leave the group.) He
narrated, “Naka blind fold man mi ato sir, dayon gisugodan mi ug bunal. kuan sir sakit
sir e” (We were blindfolded sir then they started hitting us. It was very painful sir.) He
shared what he felt during the initiation process: he wants it to end fast. “Sir, kanang
gadali nako nga mahuman wala na bitaw sunod inug human ato, dayon masulod na kos
fraternity.I was in a hurry to finish the initiation sir” (Anyway once I pass the initiation I
already become a member of the fratiernity). “Without rituals, there would be nothing to
mark this cultural change in status as extraordinary” (Manning 2000, cited in Lee-
Olukoya 2011); and in the context of sorority and fraternity life, rituals are an important
processes to mark the entrance into and the end of the experience of our distinctive
practices.
Theme 4: Curiosity
Based on his response the reason why he joined fraternity was fuelled by his need
to know what is happening inside the group. As supported by the fifth level of Maslow’s
pyramid represents an individual’s need to know and understand. According to Maslow’s
hierarchy, this motivation cannot occur until the deficiency needs have been met to the
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individual’s satisfaction (Martin and Joomis, 2007). He said, “Na curious lang ko sir
unsay naa sulod sa fraternity kay tungod pud sa akong amigo nga nag imbitar nako sir.”
(I was just curious and it’s also because of the invitation from my friend.) Gerrard (2007)
established that teenagers decisions are motivated behavior, or they've thought about how
much they want to do it. It's because they just do it. They wanted to put themselves to the
limit.
He thought that being a fraternity member provides him safety because of their
number. He shared, “Kanang naa nakoy maingon sir nga pamilya nako sir ba. Murag
safety ko sir ba kay daghan kog kauban sa frat sir, ang uban kay professional pa sir.”
(So that I can have somebody I can call my family. I feel secured because I belong to a
big group and there are members who are already professionals.) Even though certain
risks have been identified, people are still very eager to join to gain power and
protection” (Melendez, et al 2012). He added, “Daghan mo protektar nako sir if naay
mang atraso nako sir. Dayon gatabang pud sila nako sir sa akong mga projects sa
eskwelahan, murag bayanihan sir b a. dayon confident ko sir nga maka kita kog trabaho
sa future because naa koy mga ka frat nga nagtrabaho sa dagkong companya.” (There
will be many who will protect me if in case I get into trouble sir. They they also help me
if I have projects in school and I feel confident that I will land a job in the future because
I have fraternity members working in big companies). Arceelee (2010) added that the frat
also has the duty to protect its members.

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Theme 6: Fun Filled Activities
Partying is fun for people of all ages, teenagers in particular like to party. This may
include clubbing, attending a concert or festival, having a party at home or going to a
party at a friend’s house. Fraternities provide their members with many social benefits,
helping men meet new people and develop strong friendships both inside and outside of
individual chapters (http://www.willamette.edu/dept/osa/greek/ fraternities/index.html).
Fraternities are all about ritual and acceptance and what current individuals were required
to do for acceptance is amplified for future pledges (http://www.university-
college.net/articles/fraternity-hazing.php). He shared, “Kuan sir sadya man gud sir basta
kuyog ko nila. Kanang magkatapok mi sir.” (I enjoyed as long as I am with them sir.
When we are together sir.) Moreover fraternities and sororities are among the key groups
that foster this culture of drinking on campus. Their members drink far greater amounts
of alcohol, and do so more frequently, than do other students on campus. Leaders of
fraternities and sororities drink more frequently than other members, setting a norm for
heavy drinking. Students affiliated with such organizations, whether full members or
pledges, thus constitute a high-risk population for alcohol abuse and its consequences
(Higher Education Center, 2008). He added “Basta mag tapok mi sir usahay mag-inom,
dayon mag istoryahanay sir dayon, kuan sir usahay mag outing, for example anniversary
sa among grupo or naay birthday sa among ka frat sir.” (When we are together we
sometimes drink and tell stories. Sometimes we also go into outings during anniversaries
or if some members have their birthday.)

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The participant being a fraternity member was aware of the negative impression
of people around him. These impressions might have been fuelled by cases of fraternity
violence depicted. Before pledging a fraternity, you'll need to face the fact that fraternity
(Sparks, 2011). The first thing that enters my mind when I hear the word fraternities are
organizations of guys who spend their time drinking beers and having their social
gatherings (http://www.oppapers.com/essays/Positive-And-Negative-Aspects-Of-
Fraternities/484180). In the public mind, fraternities have been equated with brawling
street gangs, regardless of whether they are based in UP or not. Joining a fraternity has
become a game of Russian roulette, and the names of those who have lost have fed media
frenzies for years (Llaneta, 2009). He said, “Kuan sir, lain man gud ang panan-awan sa
mga tawo basta frat member ka. Unya naka apekto ni nako kon naa koy baye nga
ganahan panguyaban, dili sila ganahan nako kay membro lagi ko ug fraternity”
(Sometimes people think that being a member of a fraternity is bad. It affected me
especially if I court a girl that I like. They will not accept me because I am a fraternity
member.) He sometimes feel that a crime committed by a fraternity brother is also thrown
at them. He added, “Dili pud nako ma blame ang ubang tawo sir sa ing ana nga pana-aw
namo nga frat member kay ang uban namong kauban sa grupo sir naa man guy mga
kontra sa uban nga fraternity mao na nga naay gubot usahay” (I cannot blame them sir if
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that is what they think of us because some of us have enemies with other fraternities
which sometimes results in fistfights.) He also ended it by saying, “Dili tanan nga frat
member mga dungol sir ug wala ga sulod sa klase” (Not all frat members are
troublemakers and do not atted school.)
Theme 8: Risky Lifestyle
He also knows the dangers and risk of being a fratman. He understands that fact
that his group might have grudges from other groups that could lead to fights. He shared,
“Dayon, kuan sir, dako kaayo ang risgo ang pagka membro ug fraternity sir kay wala ka
kaila kung kinsa ang kontra ug dili kontra sa imong grupo.” (Then sir, it is very risky to
join a fraternity because you do not know who are the friends and enemies of your
group.) Fraternities here in the Philippines have a “stigma” according to Dela Cruz
(2008). That is, people think that fraternities have nothing to do any good for you. It
involves in frat wars, murders and any kind of crimes. He also added that being a
fratmen, especially when you are a member of a big fraternity is risky and dangerous. It is
true that these big frats made services to people. Sparks (2011) added that fraternities
spend a great deal of their time socializing, mixing with other groups and spending time
drinking, which creates the perfect backdrop for fights and social drama.
Composite Textural Description
Table 2 shows how themes emerged among the ten participants. While the
individual descriptions showed how themes emerged among each participant, the
composite textural description seeks to show how the themes emerge as a composite
whole.
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Table 2. Individual Themes by Participant.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Curiosity X X X X
Belongingness X X X X X X X X
Social Responsibility X X X X
Commitment to Stay X X
Rite of passage X X X X
School Freeze X X
Physical and Mental X X X X
Exploitation
No easy way out X X X X X X
Fun filled Activites X X X
Personal Gain X X X X X
Social Stigma X X X X X
Accidentally and X X
Incidentally hooked
Empty Promises X X X
Secret Life X X X
Relating to the Family X X X X
Violence X X X
Regrets X
Risky Lifestyle X
No one is taking me X
seriously
As is seen in Table 2, the only theme to occur in most of the participants was
belongingness. Belongingness emerged as the most prominent theme, which is fitting
given the focus of the study. It illuminates the need to belong of teenagers. Depending on
one’s point of view, all of the remaining themes can be viewed as perspectives on the
major theme of belongingness. However, each theme emerged from the data, and stands
on its own as unique description of the lived experience of the participants.
Most of the participants spoke in the over-emphasis of barkada. While most have
a group of friends they found solid friendship in fraternity. Participants used different
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expressions to describe the belongingness. Participant 1 talked about his closeness with
his friends within his fraternity. Participant 3 talked about brotherhood. Participant 4,
friends are with fraternity. Participant 6 just spoke in terms of having friends of her age
whom she can talk to. Participant 7 stressed on unity of his group. Particpant 8 noted that
he gained more friends. Participant 9 saw friends whom he can share his problems.
Participant 10 wanted to extend his network in joining fraternity he felt the acceptance
within the group.
Participant 1, 2, 6 and 8 were most vocal among the participans regarding the
help their fraternity has extended to them. Friends are also the biggest factor that made
the participants stay in the organization. It all boils down to “barkada”. They found strong
sense of belonging in fraternities which they couldn’t find in other social groups, like
organizations, friends, or even their own families. when everyday problems arise,
adolescents prefer to discuss these with their close friends, rather than parents.
Adolescents participate in a complex social environment populated by many friendship
groups, cliques, and crowds. The desire to belong to a group may influence an
adolescent's behavior well before he or she is actually a member of the group. Individuals
may change their behavior in order to gain peer acceptance. Thus, one's peer group
affiliation does not need to be reciprocated in order to influence behavior.
The second picture to emerge among the participants was no easy way out. It
appears that most of the participants stayed in fraternity because of fear. Participants 4, 5
and 6 stressed more on the threats by other frat members. They are anxious that members
will hurt them if they will quit. They are hesitant to leave the group because of
intimidations given to them by the leaders. They are bound by the bylaws of their
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organization that if they quit they will have to experience and undergo the same process
of how they were accepted or worst. While Participants 2 and 7 Members get into the
dilemma of whether to quit and be considered a traitor or stay and reap the fruits of being
in a fraternity.
Another prominent theme to emerge among the participants was social stigma. It
appeared that most of the participants are aware of associated stigma of the being a
fraternity member. Participants 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 saw the negative impression of people
around theme in there membership with fraternity. They felt bad about it and are affected
as such that they feel that others see them as bad guys. They sometimes feel that a crime
committed by a fraternity brother is also thrown at them. Before pledging a fraternity,
you'll need to face the fact that fraternity members are sometimes looked down upon,
thought of as party boys who had to pay membership dues to make friends. Not only will
those outside the fraternity life have preconceived notions of your fraternity, but
members of other Greek societies will also assume they know something about you based
on the reputation of your fraternity (Sparks, 2011). The popular opinion of fraternities is
that of a place where “frat boys” party every night of the week as portrayed in movies.
Fraternities and sororities get an admittedly bad rap in the pop cultural eye: they're
always depicted as dated, insipid cliques that spend all their time and energy focused on
beer pong (for the men) or catfights (for the women). And it's true that some of the
students that pledge turn out to be total nut jobs who want to embrace those stereotypes
and get lost in the mindless partying (http://www.bachelorsdegree.org/2010/09/16/the-
advantages-of-fraternity-and-sorority-life/).
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The next theme to come out was personal gain. Participants 2 and 10 stressed
more on protection. Even though certain risks have been identified, people are still very
eager to join to gain power and protection” (Melendez, et al 2012). Arceelee (2010)
added that the frat also has the duty to protect its members. Participant 5 talked more on
the support she gets from her fraternity while participant 3 talked about his personal
improvements because of his fraternity membership. Participant 9 sees his membership as
a privilege because it’s not for everybody. The way where your life can be influenced
positively by fraternity according to NAIFC is to be a better person (Baquilid, 2010).This
means wanting to be a leader, to work effectively and to confront inappropriate behavior,
to learn to interact socially, and to be a responsible person among other things. Another
way is to form lifelong friendship (Baquilid, 2010). A sense of belongingness, self
identity, status and emotional support are some positive consequences associated with
gang membership based on the studies conducted by Virgil, 1988 (cited in Omizo et al.
2000). Because fraternity brothers are sworn to look out for each other, these connections
can come in handy when it's time to apply to graduate school or land a job (Sparks,
2011). Baquilid (2010) also added that the lifelong friendships your child will make be
being a member of a fraternity or sorority will last through post-college years.
Furthermore, it appears that their curiosity is about of wanting to know how it
feels being paddled in the initiation rites of fraternity. Participants 1, 2, 7, and 10 pointed
out curiosity as one of the reasons why they joined fraternity. They desire to put
themselves into a test; if they will be able to survive the initiation. It seems that they
wanted to prove their physical prowess and be able to say that they are strong because
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they were able to carry on the instigation of becoming a true member of a certain
fraternity.
The next theme dwelt more on the social responsibility and the positive altruism
participants obtain in their membership in fraternities. Participants 1, 2, 3 and 7 are one in
saying about the philanthropic cause of their respective fraternity. It comes into view that
even with the negative image of fraternity there are still something good about fraternity.
Fraternities can also be a venue to be of assistance to others. They perceive it as an
occasion to grow and develop their skills and abilities. It was stressed that participants
service even in their own little way. An important and often overlooked aspect of
fraternity life is dedication to serving the community. All fraternity organizations
support their own philanthropic project. These range from working with senior citizens,
the homeless, or at-risk youth and various other charitable organizations.
Another prominent theme to emerge among the participants was rite of passage.
Participants 1, 6, 7 and 10 all narrated how they were recruited and the rituals of initiation
by each fraternity. The ritual ceremony is universally a huge secret and therefore is
different for all organizations (http://www.eduinreview.com/blog/2010/08/what-happens-
at-fraternity-and-sorority-initiation-ceremonies/). Pledging mostly involves learning
about the fraternity and its way of life. It's also how a pledge shows the brothers that he is
worthy of being a member. Often, pledges are given group projects to complete to show
they can work as a team or individual tasks to show they're willing to help a brother. If
the pledge demonstrates what the brothers are looking for, they initiate him into the
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fraternity. The initiation may not be called hazing, but the practice dates back to the
1800s and even though it's banned by many campuses and fraternities
(http://curiosity.discovery.com/question/how-fraternities-recruit-their-members).
Another theme to emerge was physical and mental exploitation. Participants 1, 2,
4 and 6 pointed out occasional drinking and smoking during fraternity gathering. It also
appears that alcohol and drugs are inevitable during fraternity gathering. It is clearly
stated that even though drugs and alcohol is not allowed in their fraternity, deviant
members still find way to sneak in this prohibited substances. As teenagers seeking their
place in the society they are curious on these substances. With the availability of these in
fraternity meetings chances are they will be forced or enticed to try it. The present study
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for most respondents (even though most of them were underage). The present study
(http://www.termpaperwarehouse.com/essay-on/Negative-Effects-Of-Fraternity/61026).
Participant 6 even got pregnant and became a single mom because of their
reckless activities. Based on a meta-analysis of more than 13 studies of over 3,000 men,
members of fraternities were significantly more likely to accept common rape myths such
as "if a woman is wearing a short skirt she is asking to be raped," (Murnen & Kohlman,
2007). This same meta-analysis also looked at data from 15 studies with over 5,000
individuals and found that fraternity membership was significantly associated with
increased self-report of sexual aggression (Murnen & Kohlman, 2007).
They also mentioned and confirmed hazing to be present in their fraternities.
Hazing has been a perpetual problem all over the world. It may be unknown to many that
there are 1.5 million high school students in the US alone that are hazed every year. In
college, 55% experience this. US statistics in February 12, 2010 show that there are 96
deaths due to school fraternity and sorority hazing, not counting those in clubs,
organizations or teams. Of these deaths, 82% involves the intake of alcohol (Gueco,
2012).
One of the contributing factors was relating to the family. Participants 7, 8, 9 and
10 felt neglected by their family. They cannot relate to the people in their house. As
mentioned by Walker (2012), when home isn’t a place you want to go home to, it’s
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essential to find other places where you feel safe, supported, and seen for who you are.
According to a report by the Center for Health Communication, Harvard School of Public
Health, [Raising Teens: A Synthesis of Research and a Foundation for Action, 2001]
parents should incorporate five concepts into their interactions with their teens: Love and
Connect, Monitor and Observe, Guide and Limit, Model and Consult and, Provide and
Advocate. It negatesthe need to be loved is exceptionally strong in all human beings.
From childhood to old age, humans want to be loved by those around the
(http://www.alislam.org/raising_children/4.htm).
Participants 2, 7 and 10 stressed on fun filled activities. Participants found the
groups activites enjoyable. Partying is fun for people of all ages, teenagers in particular
like to party. This may include clubbing, attending a concert or festival, having a party at
home or going to a party at a friend’s house. Fraternities provide their members with
many social benefits, helping men meet new people and develop strong friendships both
inside and outside of individual chapters (http://www.willamette.edu/ dept/osa/greek/
fraternities/index.html).
Participants 4, 5, and 6 shared on empty promises. Participants 1, 6 and 9 stressed
on secret life while violence was more prominent to Participants 2, 7 and 8.
Participants joined the group because it was said to have a good purpose, but later
on he found out the truth. As stated by Tristan Zantua, they are blinded by the privileges
offered to them” (Melendez, et al 2012). Frequently, individuals pledge a fraternity with
no idea that they might be beaten, sexually abused, forced to drink a whole bottle of
liquor while locked naked in the trunk of a car, or hundreds of other humiliating and
tortuous hazing events that take place (http://www.university-

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college.net/articles/fraternity-hazing.php). If more pledges were aware of what they
might experience, the amount of pledges would surely drop because one's life and dignity
is not worth trading for some brothers. They did not learn anything during their stay as
fraternity members. . As supported by a recent sociological study conducted by Richard
(http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504744_162-20028739-10391703.html).
The mystery of being a fraternity member was also stressed by Participant 2. This can
be attributed to the clandestine nature of of fraternity and its stealthy underground
activites. Fraternities were often referred to as “secret societies.” As these societies
quickly spread to other campuses and the first sorority emerged in 1831, Greek
organizations consisted of a network of supporters, with brothers and sisters vowing each
other’s loyalty to the death (Glass, 2012). The clandestine nature of the institution is part
of the explanation why many do not imagine that they are not taking part in an institution
(Fink, 2005).
It is noted that because of the presence of these groups and the quest for
distinction, frat and gang wars emerge. Comacket et al (2010) made mention on the
increase in the number of aboriginal street gang members who indulge in gang wars and
shooting. Sparks (2011) added that fraternities spend a great deal of their time
socializing, mixing with other groups and spending time drinking, which creates the
perfect backdrop for fights and social drama. Most predominantly, this hazing occurs
within the Greek system on many campuses and involves, but is not limited to, physical,
mental and sexual abuse, all of which can potentially lead to acts of violence outside of
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the Greek system such as gang rape. And while fraternity hazing rituals seem to appear in
the news more often than sorority hazing events, of which only ten or so are reported
each year, sorority sisters are just as guilty of such acts as their fellow brothers (Carlton,
2009). A number of gangs in the Philippines are known to be active around the nation.
number of gangs are known to deal in illegal narcotics, some known criminal activities
include home invasion, kidnapping and torture, extortion, arson, grand theft auto,
robberies, sale of illegal narcotics, battery assault, shootings and numerous known &
unknown homicides (Kowalzki, 2010).
Commitment to say was also prominent with Participants 1 and 9. Participant 1
stands by his decision to stay since he already joined while Participant 9 stressed that he
had reached the point of no return, he cannot back out. An article that looks at a study by
Cornell University, which found that most adolescents make unwise choices after heavily
weighing the pros and cons. They engage in high-risk behavior because they think the
benefits, such as immediate gratification or peer acceptance, outweigh the risks (Whelan,
2007). An adolescent’s brain development is not complete. Often the last part of the
brain to develop is the frontal cortex, or the section of the brain that aids in decision-
making and impulse control. This may lead many teens—who are trying to learn a new
world of complex decisions—to make choices quickly or impulsively without a lot of
critical thought (Newby and Snyder, 2009).
Participants 4 and 5 made mention of being accidentally and incidentally hooked
in being a fraternity member. While most have other reasons why they join fraternity,
participant 5 states that he entered fraternity by chance. He was blinded of the true
purposed of the organization and he was trapped because they are not allowed to backed-
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out. Participant 4 was recruited and became a member because her name was included in
the listing, and they are not allowed to back out. Thefraternityadvisor 2012, stated to keep
in mind though that after you are initiated you will have crossed the point of no return
and will not be able to start or join another fraternity. In Visayan Daily Star 2011, Nuwer
detailed that the victim, whose name the police withheld, was invited by a fellow
teenager Thursday last week to meet his friends. The victim agreed, not knowing that it
would be an initial meeting with the alleged members of the fraternity called the “Tau
Gamma Phi”, Bolivar said. When the victim refused to join the organization, the “master
initiator” threatened him, Bolivar added. It appears that neophytes fall in a trap in which
there is no way out. Any member who disobeys orders will be considered a traitor and
will instantly expelled and become an enemy of the frat (Arceelee, 2010).
School freeze was also noted by participants 1 and 7. Participant 1 stressed that
his education has suffered because of his involvement in fraternity. As a result, he is now
an irregular fourth year student because he stopped schooling when he was advised to
transfer to a different school. Most fraternities require a significant time commitment in
terms of helping with fundraisers, parties or other social events. There are usually weekly
meetings to attend and other responsibilities a student must shoulder in addition to his
academic course load. Some college students can find it hard to juggle classes and
fraternity responsibilities. The pressure from his fraternity will often cause him to
sacrifice his grades in order to put the fraternity first. (The Bad Effects of
Fraternities|eHow.comhttp://www.ehow.com/info_8602217_bad-effectsfraternities .html.
PArticiapant 2 shared about her situation and how her studies suffered because of her
early pregnancy.
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The last 3 themes to come out were all negative effects of being a fraternity
member. Participant 7 pointed out on his regrets being a member and Participant 10
understood the risk involve in his fraternity life. Participant 3 noted also that no one is
taking him seriously. Participant 7’s bond with his fraternity was tested when he was
caught by the policemen in out of their initiation ritual and his frat brothers left him.
Participant 10’s noted that he considers risk part of his fraternity life because he does not
know the adversaries of his group.
FINAL EIDETIC INSIGHT: FRATERNITY: A DOUBLE EDGED SWORD
In their quest for their place under the heat of the sun, teenagers are easy recruits
for a fraternity. Their decisions were merely based on gut feel. Participants define part of
their identity by the group they are into. Their friends have a strong influence on why
they join and stay in a particular fraternity. Participants were lured by their drive to
belong in which fraternity can provide. They dwelt too much on the camaraderie they
found inside the organization.
For the participants, their friendship was made strong because of their
involvement in fraternity. They see it as an opportunity to help others through various
civic and social activities and to improve themselves.
Being a fraternity member can be compared to a double-edged sword. Themes
can be furthere categorized as advantages and disadvantages. Advantages include
belongingness, personal gain, social responsibility and fun filled activites while
disadvantages include no easy way out, social stigma, curiosity, rite of passage,
physical/mental exploitation, relating to the family, empty promises, secret life, violence,
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commitment to stay, accidentally/incidentally hooked, school freeze, regrets, risky
lifestyle and no one is taking me seriously.
Participants were attracted to it at first because of the benevolent undertaking it
has promised to them. They were drowned by the benefits it can provide in their entire
stay in as members of the group. After a while they realize that there seems to be
problems, they cannot easily quit and leave the group. This can endanger their lives and
their family’s well being. They come to a point that they would not endorse or would
recruit someone they know to join fraternity because they do not want them to be in the
same situation they are now. The very same group that comforted them in their quest to
belong can also be the same group that could jeopardize their lives, and the things that are
important to them like family, friends and school.

177
Chapter 5
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter presents the summary of the findings of this qualitative research and
the conclusions that were culled from the findings. A set of recommendations was drawn
up in relation to the major findings and conclusions in this study.
Summary of Findings
In the light of this qualitative paper on the lived experiences of high school
fraternity member in Canlaon City, twenty (19) themes emerged from the semi-
structured, in-depth interviews conducted with ten (10) participants. The following are
the summary of the findings of the study:
The only theme to occur in most of the participants was belongingness.
Belongingness emerged as the most prominent theme, which is fitting given the focus of
the study. It illuminates the need to belong of teenagers. Depending on one’s point of
view, all of the remaining themes can be viewed as perspectives on the major theme of
belongingness. However, each theme emerged from the data, and stands on its own as
unique description of the lived experience of the participants.
Most of the participants spoke in the over-emphasis of barkada. While most have
a group of friends they found solid friendship in fraternity. Participants used different
expressions to describe the belongingness. They found strong sense of belonging in
fraternities which they couldn’t find in other social groups, like organizations, friends, or
even their own families. when everyday problems arise, adolescents prefer to discuss
these with their close friends, rather than parents. Adolescents participate in a complex
social environment populated by many friendship groups, cliques, and crowds. The desire
178
to belong to a group may influence an adolescent's behavior well before he or she is
actually a member of the group. Individuals may change their behavior in order to gain
peer acceptance. Thus, one's peer group affiliation does not need to be reciprocated in
order to influence behavior.
The second picture to emerge among the participants was no easy way out. It
appears that most of the participants stayed in fraternity because of fear. They are anxious
that members will hurt them if they will quit. They are hesitant to leave the group
because of intimidations given to them by the leaders. They are bound by the bylaws of
their organization that if they quit they will have to experience and undergo the same
process of how they were accepted or worst. Members get into the dilemma of whether
to quit and be considered a traitor or stay and reap the fruits of being in a fraternity.
Another prominent theme to emerge among the participants was social stigma. It
appeared that most of the participants are aware of associated stigma of the being a
fraternity member. They felt bad about it and are affected as such that they feel that
others see them as bad guys. They sometimes feel that a crime committed by a fraternity
brother is also thrown at them. Before pledging a fraternity, you'll need to face the fact
that fraternity members are sometimes looked down upon, thought of as party boys who
had to pay membership dues to make friends. Not only will those outside the fraternity
life have preconceived notions of your fraternity, but members of other Greek societies
will also assume they know something about you based on the reputation of your
fraternity (Sparks, 2011). The popular opinion of fraternities is that of a place where
“frat boys” party every night of the week as portrayed in movies. Fraternities and
sororities get an admittedly bad rap in the pop cultural eye: they're always depicted as
179
dated, insipid cliques that spend all their time and energy focused on beer pong (for the
men) or catfights (for the women). And it's true that some of the students that pledge turn
out to be total nut jobs who want to embrace those stereotypes and get lost in the
mindless partying (http://www.bachelorsdegree.org/2010/09/16/the-advantages-of-
fraternity-and-sorority-life/).
The next theme to come out was personal gain. Participants stressed on
protection, support and personal improvements. . Even though certain risks have been
identified, people are still very eager to join to gain power and protection” (Melendez, et
al 2012). Arceelee (2010) added that the frat also has the duty to protect its members. The
way where your life can be influenced positively by fraternity according to NAIFC is to
be a better person (Baquilid, 2010).This means wanting to be a leader, to work effectively
and to confront inappropriate behavior, to learn to interact socially, and to be a
responsible person among other things. Another way is to form lifelong friendship
(Baquilid, 2010). A sense of belongingness, self identity, status and emotional support are
some positive consequences associated with gang membership based on the studies
conducted by Chesney-Lind et al. 1995; Clark, 1992; Virgil, 1988 (cited in Omizo et al.
2000). Because fraternity brothers are sworn to look out for each other, these connections
can come in handy when it's time to apply to graduate school or land a job (Sparks,
2011). Baquilid (2010) also added that the lifelong friendships your child will make be
being a member of a fraternity or sorority will last into post-college years.
Furthermore, it appears that their curiosity is more of wanting to know how it
feels being paddled in the initiation rites of fraternity. They desire to put themselves into
a test; if they will be able to survive the initiation. It seems that they wanted to prove
180
their physical prowess and be able to say that they are strong because they were able to
carry on the instigation of becoming a true member of a certain fraternity.
The next theme dwelt more on the social responsibility and the positive altruism
participants obtain in their membership in fraternities. It comes into view that even with
the negative image of fraternity there are still something good about fraternity.
Fraternities can also be a venue to be of assistance others. They perceive it as an
occasion to grow and develop their skills and abilities. It was stressed that participants
service even in their own little way. An important and often overlooked aspect of
fraternity life is dedication to serving the community. All fraternity organizations
support their own philanthropic project. These range from working with senior citizens,
the homeless, or at-risk youth and various other charitable organizations.
Another prominent theme to emerge among the participants was rite of passage.
Participants narrated how they were recruited and the rituals of initiation by each
fraternity. The ritual ceremony is universally a huge secret and therefore is different for
all organizations (http://www.eduinreview.com/blog/2010/08/what-happens-at-fraternity-
and-sorority- initiation-ceremonies/). Pledging mostly involves learning about the
fraternity and its way of life. It's also how a pledge shows the brothers that he is worthy
of being a member. Often, pledges are given group projects to complete to show they can
work as a team or individual tasks to show they're willing to help a brother. If the pledge
demonstrates what the brothers are looking for, they initiate him into the fraternity. The
initiation may not be called hazing, but the practice dates back to the 1800s and even
181
though it's banned by many campuses and fraternities (http://curiosity.discovery.com/
question/how-fraternities-recruit-their-members).
Another theme to emerge was physical and mental exploitation. Participants
pointed out occasional drinking and smoking during fraternity gathering. It also appears
that alcohol and drugs are inevitable during fraternity gathering. It is clearly stated that
even though drugs and alcohol is not allowed in their fraternity, deviant members still
find way to sneak in this prohibited substances. As teenagers seeking their place in the
society they are curious on these substances. With the availability of these in fraternity
meetings chances are they will be force or entice to try it. The present study provides
strong evidence that higher rates of substance use among US college students who join
fraternities and sororities predate their college attendance, and that membership in a
fraternity or sorority is associated with considerably greater than average increases in
for most respondents (even though most of them were underage). The present study
182
(http://www.termpaperwarehouse.com/essay-on/Negative-Effects-Of-Fraternity/61026).
One participant even got pregnant and became a single mom because of their reckless
activities. Based on a meta-analysis of more than 13 studies of over 3,000 men, members
of fraternities were significantly more likely to accept common rape myths such as "if a
woman is wearing a short skirt she is asking to be raped," (Murnen & Kohlman, 2007).
This same meta-analysis also looked at data from 15 studies with over 5,000 individuals
and found that fraternity membership was significantly associated with increased self-
report of sexual aggression (Murnen & Kohlman, 2007).
They also mentioned and confirmed hazing to be present in their fraternities.
Hazing has been a perpetual problem all over the world. It may be unknown to many that
there are 1.5 million high school students in the US alone that are hazed every year. In
college, 55% experience this. US statistics in February 12, 2010 show that there are 96
deaths due to school fraternity and sorority hazing, not counting those in clubs,
organizations or teams. Of these deaths, 82% involves the intake of alcohol (Gueco,
2012).
One of the contributing factors was relating to the family. Participants felt
neglected by their family. They cannot relate to the people in their house. As mentioned
by Walker (2012), when home isn’t a place you want to go home to, it’s essential to find
other places where you feel safe, supported, and seen for who you are. According to a
183
report by the Center for Health Communication, Harvard School of Public Health,
[Raising Teens: A Synthesis of Research and a Foundation for Action, 2001] parents
should incorporate five concepts into their interactions with their teens: Love and
Connect, Monitor and Observe, Guide and Limit, Model and Consult and, Provide and
Advocate. According to Lombardi (2012), studies reveal that boys who do not bond
securely with their mothers in the infant years act much more hostile, destructive and
aggressive later in life. A close bond with their moms when boys were young helped
prevent delinquency when they were older.
Another theme to surface was stressed on fun filled activities. Participants found
the groups activites enjoyable. Partying is fun for people of all ages, teenagers in
particular like to party. This may include clubbing, attending a concert or festival, having
a party at home or going to a party at a friend’s house. Fraternities provide their members
with many social benefits, helping men meet new people and develop strong friendships
both inside and outside of individual chapters (http://www.willamette.edu/
dept/osa/greek/ fraternities/index.html).
Some participants also shared on empty promises, stressed on secret life while
violence was more prominent others.
Participants joined the group because it was said to have a good purpose, but later
on he found out the truth. As stated by Tristan Zantua, they are blinded by the privileges
offered to them” (Melendez, et al 2012). Frequently, individuals pledge a fraternity with
no idea that they might be beaten, sexually abused, forced to drink a whole bottle of
liquor while locked naked in the trunk of a car, or hundreds of other humiliating and
tortuous hazing events that take place (http://www.university-

184
college.net/articles/fraternity-hazing.php). If more pledges were aware of what they
might experience, the amount of pledges would surely drop because one's life and dignity
is not worth trading for some brothers. They did not learn anything during their stay as
fraternity members. . As supported by a recent sociological study conducted by Richard
(http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504744_162-20028739-10391703.html).
The mystery of being a fraternity member was also stressed by Participant 2. This
can be attributed to the clandestine nature of of fraternity and its stealthy underground
activites. Fraternities were often referred to as “secret societies.” As these societies
quickly spread to other campuses and the first sorority emerged in 1831, Greek
organizations consisted of a network of supporters, with brothers and sisters vowing each
other’s loyalty to the death (Glass, 2012). The clandestine nature of the institution is part
of the explanation why many do not imagine that they are not taking part in an institution
(Kichura, 2007).
It is noted that because of the presence of these groups and the quest for
distinction, frat and gang wars emerge. Comacket et al (2010) made mention on the
increase in the number of aboriginal street gang members who indulge in gang wars and
shooting. Sparks (2011) added that fraternities spend a great deal of their time
socializing, mixing with other groups and spending time drinking, which creates the
perfect backdrop for fights and social drama. Most predominantly, this hazing occurs
within the Greek system on many campuses and involves, but is not limited to, physical,
mental and sexual abuse, all of which can potentially lead to acts of violence outside of
185
the Greek system such as gang rape. And while fraternity hazing rituals seem to appear in
the news more often than sorority hazing events, of which only ten or so are reported
each year, sorority sisters are just as guilty of such acts as their fellow brothers (Carlton,
2009). A number of gangs in the Philippines are known to be active around the nation.
number of gangs are known to deal in illegal narcotics, some known criminal activities
include home invasion, kidnapping and torture, extortion, arson, grand theft auto,
robberies, sale of illegal narcotics, battery assault, shootings and numerous known &
unknown homicides (Kowalzki, 2010).
Commitment to say also emerged as a theme. Participants stand by their decision
to stay as a fraternity member since they already joined. They stressed that he had
reached the point of no return, he cannot back out. An article that looks at a study by
Cornell University, which found that most adolescents make unwise choices after heavily
weighing the pros and cons. They engage in high-risk behavior because they think the
benefits, such as immediate gratification or peer acceptance, outweigh the risks (Whelan,
2007). An adolescent’s brain development is not complete. Often the last part of the
brain to develop is the frontal cortex, or the section of the brain that aids in decision-
making and impulse control. This may lead many teens—who are trying to learn a new
world of complex decisions—to make choices quickly or impulsively without a lot of
critical thought (Newby and Snyder, 2009).
Participants made mention of being accidentally and incidentally hooked in being
a fraternity member. While most have other reasons why they join fraternity, participant
5 states that he entered fraternity by chance. He was blinded of the true purposed of the
organization and he was trapped because they are not allowed to backed-out. Participant
186
4 was recruited and became a member because her name was included in the listing, and
they are not allowed to back out. Thefraternityadvisor 2012, stated to keep in mind
though that after you are initiated you will have crossed the point of no return and will
not be able to start or join another fraternity. In Visayan Daily Star 2011, Nuwer detailed
that the victim, whose name the police withheld, was invited by a fellow teenager
Thursday last week to meet his friends. The victim agreed, not knowing that it would be
an initial meeting with the alleged members of the fraternity called the “Tau Gamma
Phi”, Bolivar said. When the victim refused to join the organization, the “master initiator”
threatened him, Bolivar added. It appears that neophytes fall in a trap in which there is no
way out. Any member who disobeys orders will be considered a traitor and will instantly
expelled and become an enemy of the frat (Arceelee, 2010).
School freeze was also noted by participants 1 and 7. Participant 1 stressed that
his education has suffered because of his involvement in fraternity. As a result, he is now
an irregular fourth year student because he stopped schooling when he was advised to
transfer to a different school. Particiapant 2 shared about her situation and how her
studies suffered because of her early pregnancy.
FINAL EIDETIC INSIGHT: FRATERNITY – A DOUBLE EDGED SWORD
Being a fraternity member can be compared to a double-edged sword. Participants
were attracted to it at first because of the benevolent undertaking it has promised to them.
They were drowned by the benefits it can provide in their entire stay in as members of the
group. After a while they realize that there seems to be problems, they cannot easily quit
and leave the group. This can endanger their lives and their family’s well being. They
come to a point that they would not endorse or would recruit someone they know to join
187
fraternity because they do not want them to be in the same situation they are now. The
very same group that comforted them in their quest to belong can also be the same group
that could jeopardize their lives, and the things that are important to them like family,
friends and school. Some others see fraternity positively.
Figure 3. Illustrates the final eidetic insight of this study.
FRATERNTIY
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
Belongingness No Easy Way out
Personal Gain Social Stigma
Social Responsibility Curiosity
Fun Filled Activitiies Rite of Passage
Physical & Mental
Exploitation
Empty Promises
Secret Life
Violence
Commitment to Stay
Accidentally and
Incidentally Hooked
School Freeze
Regrets
Risky Lifestyle
No one is taking me
seriously
Based on the above-mentioned findings, a new framework has been created that is
truly reflective of the sentiments, concerns and issues that are teenagers in context. It
reflects the reasons and motivations for fraternity members and the meaning, insights and
inspiration that were revealed after this research investigation. It illustrates the
188
advantages and disadvantages of being a fraternity member. The Figure 4 shows the Live
Experiences of High School Fraternity Members Framework.
DISADVANTAGES
No Easy Way Out

Social Stigma
Curiosity
Rite of Passage
Physical & Mental Exploitation
ADVANTAGES Relating to the Family
Belongingness Empty Promises
Personal Gain Secret Life
Social Responsibility Violence
Fun Filled Activities Commitment to Stay

Accidentally & Incidentally Hooked
School Freeze
Risky Lifestyle
No one is taking me seriously
FRATERNITY: A DOUBLE EDGED SWORD
Figure 4. Live Experiences of High School Fraternity Members Framework
The framework above incorporates all the ideas culled from the in-depth
interviews that were conducted with the participants. It shows the nineteen basic themes
divided into four advantages and fifteen disadvantages. The sword was placed
189
horizontally with the darker side down because the disadvantages outweigh the
advantages. If the sword was thrust to a teenager’s body, it could bring him life or death.
The lived experiences of high school fraternity members can be illustrated above.
It appears that based on the curiosity the main reason my they join fraternity and in the
process they realized that they are hooked. They cannot easily quit from the organization.
The benefits of being a fraternity member are very catchy. They experience social and
personal growth as well as having a support system. It was also evident that some
fraternities are not true to their purpose and that was very disappointing to the
participants of the study. On the reasons why they stay, participants agree that they
fraternity serves as a venue for them to have fun filled activities. They are able to mingle
with their friends and establish a strong friendship with in the group.
The study also was able to uncover some of the negative consequences of being a
fraternity member. In the learnings of the participants, they were able to see that the
disadvantages outweighs the benefits of being a fraternity member.
Conclusion
In the light of the findings of this qualitative study, the main objective of the
researcher to have a glimpse inside the world of a high school fraternity members was
achieved. In essence, the study has brought to the fore a world that only those who are
engaged in fraternity can describe, and through their vivid descriptions, those from the
outside looking in had a preview of what it is like to be in their world.
Fraternity had been a problem in the JBCMHS for quite some time now but only
limited information has been known about them. It appears that at the moment, fraternity
involvement among high school students has significantly increased.

190
The major findings of the study are limited to the common reasons and
motivations why high school students join fraternity and how this decision has created an
impact in their personal and student lives. There were a lot of issues that came out and
among the notable ones pertain to the curiosity and their need to belong. While
participants stays with their parents and relative they still seek that belongingness outside
through their friends. For these high school students, their fraternity is a symbol of the
brotherhood in which they get support and fulfil their need to belong.
In the course of their fraternity membership, these high school students feel that
they are reaping a good return in their membership of the organization such as social
responsibility (altruism), personal gain, support system, and fun filled activities. Others
see fraternity as a training ground for the improvement of themselves. They are happy to
help the community as well as developing themselves as a functional individual in the
society. This students enjoy being in the organization because they can do and feel
comfortable with the group.
On the other hand they recognize the negative consequences in their membership
in these organizations. Most if not all, realize that there are existing disadvantages in
fraternities like, it is harder to get out because they are bound by the bylaws of the
organization. Fraternities can be a venue where alcohol and illegal drugs can easily
accessed by members. Majority condemn hazing and would not like their friends to
experience it.
The experiences of these older workers in this study have opened the eyes of the
people to the reality of fraternity in high schools. Although this is not a relatively new
phenomenon in the country and there is a dearth of research information on the subject,
191
these experiences have painted a face of fraternity in Canlaon City specifically in high
schools.
Finally, fraternity has been equated to a double edged sword in which the very
organization in which members get their support could also jeopardize their lives as well
as the things that they value like family, friends and school. The Live Experiences of
High School Fraternity Members Framework has emerged . The concept of fraternity in
high school students has now been redefined. Participants define part of their identify
with the acceptance of their friends. This is why they still continue being in fraternity
despite the negative consequences contained by it.
Recommendations
Based on the significant findings and conclusions in this study, the following
recommendations are advanced:
1. There is a need for the school administration to review its policies in the
implementation of fraternity and sorority involvement of high school students.
2. Despite the school’s effort to make fraternity and gang free community, there
is still a need to improve its programs for student involvement in clubs.
Students do not see the school organization as a place to belong. Teachers are
encourage to make their activities interesting and also be involve in nation
building like outreach programs and community service.
3. There is a serious need for the local government to pass city ordinance to
prevent operation of fraternities and sororities especially in high schools and
avoid minor students in joining and fraternities and gang.

192
4. From the data gathered in the study, there seems to be a general observation
that those high school students who are fraternity have working parents and
they are not close to them. They share most of their problems to their friends
rather than their parents. Parents should therefore take time and find ways to
reach out to their children.
5. Since many of these students see fraternity as part of their need to belong,
teachers are to give the opportunities to them to strengthen their personal and
interpersonal needs. What makes them join fraternity is largely determined by
the important relationships and support system that they have developed over
their friends. Teachers are encouraged to be child friendly.
6. More solid programs that cater to the integral development of the high school
students should be planned in order to prepare them in their decision at
present and in the future.
7. In order to understand more fully the fraternity in high schools, more studies
utilizing differential methodologies should be conducted to explore the areas,
settings and contexts not covered in the scope of this present study.
8. Fraternity has its own advantages and disadvantages that high school students
are not yet prepared for. It is recommended fraternities should only recruit and
accept members that are of legal age.
9. It is also recommended that the suggestions made in the counseling program
be reviewed, considered for possible implementation by the administration in
order to benefit the whole studentry.

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35

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

they have gained while they are in the world of fraternity.

voice. Pablo shares:

2. “Wala ra sir, trip ra sir.” (None sir, it was just a trip.)

Themes for Participant 1

Physical and Mental Exploitation

Textural Description for Participant 1

The themes to emerge for Participant 1 were curiosit, belongingness,

physical and mental exploitation.

Erickson’s theory on the psychosocial stages of human development is very clear

pyramid represents an individual’s need to know and understand. According to Maslow’s

violence, petty crimes such as theft, etc. (http://EzineArticles.com/86747). He was also

(I want to know how painful it is to be paddled.)

they were involved in fraternity. Adolescents participate in a complex social

A sense of group belonging is a psychological construct (Kiesner, Cardinu, Poulin, &

Adolescents participate in a complex social environment populated by many friendship

in school to make student life easier (Lorna, 2006).

Theme 3: Secret Life

sorority emerged in 1831, Greek organizations consisted of a network of supporters, with

Theme 4: Social Responsibility

any other human institution, encourages it members to make a commitment to something

outside themselves, such as participating in charity events, events to benefit the

(http://www.oppapers.com/essays/Positive-Aspects-Fraternities/1436). He said, “Wala

member of the fraternity, you are still an ordinary person.)

Theme 5: Commitment to Stay

acceptance, outweigh the risks (Whelan, 2007). Thefraternityadvisor.com added to keep

complex decisions—to make choices quickly or impulsively without a lot of critical

lang taposon.” (Since I started it I will finish it.) He noted, “(Laughs) di ra di na ko

alright sir, we did not get into trouble).

Theme 6: Rite of Passage

and-sorority-initiation-ceremonies/). Rites are valuable and are significant to the future of

because it has started already.)

Theme 7: School Freeze

He stressed that his education has suffered because of his involvement in

fraternity. As a result, he is now an irregular fourth year student because he stopped

a negative effect when it comes to a member's academic standing. Most fraternities

require a significant time commitment in terms of helping with fundraisers, parties or

(The Bad Effects of Fraternities|eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_8602217_bad-

effectsfraternities.html #ixzz1rXzNPYLx). He said “Dako sir e, maayo na gud ta akong

moeskwela ta ko galing didto man ko sa Dumaguete sir, tambay kog Dumaguete.nya

Theme 8: Physical and Mental Exploitation

It appears that his learnings on his participation to fraternity are negative. He

(http:// www.oppapers.com/ essays/ Positive- And- Negative- Aspects -Of- Fraternities/

meaningless, difficult, dangerous or humiliating tasks to perform, exposing them to

others who had cuts.)

“Christian” is 16 years old and is a senior student of JBCMHS-Main. He lives

would not back out from any fight.

he readily answered all the questions. He shares:

servicing, we helped during the Guihulngan relief operations. And also we

No easy way out

Fun filled Activities

Physical and Mental Exploitation

Textural Description for Participant 2

He said he was curious on what is it inside the fraternity. During adolescence,

even premeditated. Instead, they're reactive to "risk-conducive" circumstances that

as playing a part in a wide range of human endeavour. Curiosity is a state commonly

Theme 2: Social Responsibility

He said, “Kuan, community servicing sir sa kanang katong, kamiy nanabang