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Reverted 3 edits by Tomlara219 (talk): AKRho may have changed its name. Its legacy of hazing remains a material fact, and is useful context for this article.
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Tomlara219 (talk | contribs)
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I disagree with your view. This is the reason according to the Fraternity that they have registered as a Humanitarian Service Organisation. The action of those that are not recognised and sanctioned by the Fraternity cannot be blamed on this Humanitarian Organisation. Undid revision 1161718925 by Jax MN (talk)
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{{Infobox fraternity
{{Infobox fraternity
|letters = {{lang|grc|ΑΚΡ}}/{{lang|grc|ακρ}}
|letters = {{lang|grc|ΑΚΡ}}/{{lang|grc|ακρ}}
|name = Alpha Kappa Rho
|name = Alpha Kappa Rho International Humanitarian Service Fraternity
|crest =File:Alpha_Kappa_Rho_logo.png
|crest =File:Alpha_Kappa_Rho_logo.png
|founded = {{start date and age|1973|08|08}}
|founded = {{start date and age|1973|08|08}}
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|image_size=200}}
|image_size=200}}



The '''Alpha Kappa Rho International Fraternity and Sorority''' ('''ακρ''' or '''AKRHO''') is a [[fraternity]] established in the [[Philippines]] in 1973.<ref>{{cite web |title=Official AKRHO Website |url=http://www.alphakapparho1973.com/ |access-date=2015-04-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121193554/http://www.alphakapparho1973.com/ |archive-date=2016-01-21}}</ref> The fraternity, comprising men and women from different universities, was originally established to promote loyalty, unity and integrity in the fraternity amongst its members. It is registered as an International Humanitarian Service Fraternity and Sorority which encourages members to be involved in humanitarian projects and service.<ref>{{cite web |title=Akrho Gets Green Light |url=http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/metro/view/20090117-183940/Akrho-gets-green-light-for-Sinulog |access-date=2013-11-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150203140124/http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/metro/view/20090117-183940/Akrho-gets-green-light-for-Sinulog |archive-date=2015-02-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Akrho Cleanup Graffiti | url=http://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/430243/akrho-tau-gamma-lead-cleanup-graffiti-free-city }}</ref>
The '''Alpha Kappa Rho International Humanitarian Service Fraternity and Sorority''' ('''ακρ''' or '''AKRHO''') is a [[fraternity]] established in the [[Philippines]] in 1973.<ref>{{cite web |title=Official AKRHO Website |url=http://www.alphakapparho1973.com/ |access-date=2015-04-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121193554/http://www.alphakapparho1973.com/ |archive-date=2016-01-21}}</ref> The fraternity, comprising men and women from different universities, was originally established to promote loyalty, unity and integrity in the fraternity amongst its members. It is registered as an International Humanitarian Service Fraternity and Sorority which encourages members to be involved in humanitarian projects and service.<ref>{{cite web |title=Akrho Gets Green Light |url=http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/metro/view/20090117-183940/Akrho-gets-green-light-for-Sinulog |access-date=2013-11-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150203140124/http://globalnation.inquirer.net/cebudailynews/metro/view/20090117-183940/Akrho-gets-green-light-for-Sinulog |archive-date=2015-02-03}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Akrho Cleanup Graffiti | url=http://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/430243/akrho-tau-gamma-lead-cleanup-graffiti-free-city }}</ref>
The fraternity is registered with the Philippine [[Securities and Exchange Commission (Philippines)|Securities and Exchange Commission]] as a non-profit and non-dividend corporation. AKRHO claims to have chapters worldwide.<ref>{{cite web | title=Akrho Grand 40 Year Salute | url=http://www.balita.com/a-grand-40-year-salute-to-alpha-kappa-rho/ | access-date=2013-09-27 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130926041854/http://www.balita.com/a-grand-40-year-salute-to-alpha-kappa-rho/# | archive-date=2013-09-26}}</ref>{{Dubious|date=June 2023}}
The fraternity is registered with the Philippine [[Securities and Exchange Commission (Philippines)|Securities and Exchange Commission]] as a non-profit and non-dividend corporation. it is now in other countries like [[Canada]], USA and others <ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-08-08 |title=Message of President Aquino to the Alpha Kappa Rho-Toronto Chapter on the occasion of their 41st Founding Anniversary, August 8, 2014 {{!}} GOVPH |url=https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2014/08/08/message-of-president-aquino-to-the-alpha-kappa-rho-toronto-chapter-on-the-occasion-of-their-41st-founding-anniversary-august-8-2014/ |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | title=Akrho Grand 40 Year Salute | url=http://www.balita.com/a-grand-40-year-salute-to-alpha-kappa-rho/ | access-date=2013-09-27 | archive-url=https://archive.today/20130926041854/http://www.balita.com/a-grand-40-year-salute-to-alpha-kappa-rho/# | archive-date=2013-09-26}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web | title=Alpha Kappa Rho joins Philippine Independence Day Celebration is Carson City, CA | url=https://muntingnayon.com/101/101938/index.php | archive-date=2012-06-09}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | title=Alpha Kappa Rho adopts Aquarius Beach | url=https://www.saipantribune.com/index.php/alpha-kappa-rho-adopts-aquarius-beach | archive-date=2023-04-17}}</ref>


⚫
In 2014, President [[Benigno Aquino III]] published an official message congratulating the fraternity's [[Canada]] Toronto Chapter on its 41st anniversary.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-08-08 |title=Message of President Aquino to the Alpha Kappa Rho-Toronto Chapter on the occasion of their 41st Founding Anniversary, August 8, 2014 {{!}} GOVPH |url=https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2014/08/08/message-of-president-aquino-to-the-alpha-kappa-rho-toronto-chapter-on-the-occasion-of-their-41st-founding-anniversary-august-8-2014/ |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines |language=en-US}}</ref>
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== History ==


== Foundation ==
The Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity and Sorority was founded on August 8, 1973, by sixteen college students of the [[University of Santo Tomas]] (UST). Except for the leader and elder of the group, Jose "Boy" Chua, who was enrolled at the UST College of Medicine, the 15 other founders were enrolled at the UST College of Commerce.<ref name=AKRHO>{{cite web |title=Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity 40th Anniversary |url=http://www.kabayanweekly.com/2013/08/16/akrho-40th-year-anniversary-event-successful/ |access-date=2013-10-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131216182530/http://www.kabayanweekly.com/2013/08/16/akrho-40th-year-anniversary-event-successful/ |archive-date=2013-12-16}}</ref>


The fraternity was founded on August 8 because it coincided with the feast day of [[Saint Dominic]], which was a university holiday at UST. The fraternity adopted the motto ''Vincit Omnia Veritas'' (Truth Conquers All) based on the emblem of the UST. Its members are called "Skeptrons", a Greek word for the ceremonial staff carried by a monarch as a symbol of sovereignty.<ref>{{cite web |title=Skeptrons |url=http://www.freewebs.com/akp-foundation/}}</ref>
The Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity was founded on August 8, 1973 by sixteen college students of the [[University of Santo Tomas]] (UST). Except for the leader and elder of the group, Jose "Boy" Chua, who was enrolled initially at the UST College of Medicine, the 15 other founders of Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity were enrolled at the UST College of Commerce. <ref>{{cite web | title = Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity 40th Anniversary | url = http://www.kabayanweekly.com/2013/08/16/akrho-40th-year-anniversary-event-successful/ }}</ref>
The Alpha Kappa Rho original founders are namely:
# Jose "Boy" Chua
# Teddy De Lara (Deceased)
# Edwin Solano (Deceased)
# Obet Posadas
# Arnel Lorenzo
# James Bracewell (Deceased)
# Renato Go (Deceased)
# Philip Balangue
# Roger Sarmiento
# Ted Aves
# Eleuterio Lim
# Philip Diman
# Gil Villegas
# Mark Queyquep
# Noli Manalo (Deceased)


The Alpha Kappa Rho Sorority began in 1975 and the Sorority Founders are namely:<ref>{{cite web | title = Alpha Kappa Rho Sorority | url = http://www.freewebs.com/akp-foundation/ }}</ref>
In 1976, Alpha Kappa Rho merged with the Omega Fraternity & Sorority International (OFSI) of [[San Sebastian College]] and Zeta Upsilon Fraternity of the [[University of the East]]. The merged fraternities adopted the initiation rites of OFSI, which included using a heated coin to apply a circular burn mark on the back of a member's right wrist.<ref name="AKRHO" />
# Girlie Tesoro (Deceased)
# Joyce Gregorio
# Alda Altiveros Bernabe
# Marisa Cumuyog
# JJ Aquino (Deceased)
# Irene Ileto
# Grace Mendoza


The Fraternity was founded on August 8 because it coincided with the Feast Day of [[St. Dominic]], which is a university holiday at UST, which is run by the [[Dominican Order]] or also known as the Order of Priests (OP).
In 1993, Alpha Kappa Rho was featured prominently in the action film ''Tikboy Tikas at mga Khroaks Boys,'' starring AKRHO member [[Zoren Legaspi]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tikboy Tikas At Mga Khroaks Boys |url=https://www.tvguide.com/movies/tikboy-tikas-at-mga-khroaks-boys/cast/2030427630/ |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=TVGuide.com |language=en}}</ref>


⚫
== Motto ==
⚫
In 2014, President [[Benigno Aquino III]] published an official message congratulating the fraternity in its 41st anniversary.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-08-08 |title=Message of President Aquino to the Alpha Kappa Rho-Toronto Chapter on the occasion of their 41st Founding Anniversary, August 8, 2014 {{!}} GOVPH |url=https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/2014/08/08/message-of-president-aquino-to-the-alpha-kappa-rho-toronto-chapter-on-the-occasion-of-their-41st-founding-anniversary-august-8-2014/ |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines |language=en-US}}</ref>


It's motto "Vincit Omnia Veritas" meaning "Truth Conquers All" or "[[Truth Prevails]]" comes from the emblem of the [[University of Santo Tomas]] where the Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity & Sorority was founded.<ref>{{cite web | title = Vincit Omnia Veritas | url = http://www.freewebs.com/akp-foundation/ }}</ref> Members are called "Skeptrons" a Greek word for the "ceremonial staff” or [[sceptre]] carried by a monarch as a symbol of sovereignity.<ref>{{cite web | title = Skeptrons | url = http://www.freewebs.com/akp-foundation/ }}</ref>
⚫
=== Junior AKRHO ===
In August 1975, Alpha Kappa Rho began accepting members from the high school department of the University of the East and founded the first Junior Alpha Kappa Rho chapter in its Recto campus. Other junior chapters were soon established in the [[Far Eastern University]], [[Jose Rizal College High School]], [[Philippine School of Business Administration]], and [[National College of Business and Arts]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Junior AKRHO |url=http://akpbato.webs.com/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130623123508/http://akpbato.webs.com/ |archive-date=2013-06-23 |access-date=2013-10-14}}</ref>


== Controversies ==
== Merger ==


The Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity merged with the Omega Fraternity & Sorority International (OFSI) of [[San Sebastian College]] (SSC) and Zeta Upsilon Fraternity of the [[University of the East]] Recto campus (UE-Recto) in 1976. The RITUAL (Burn Mark which is a circular scar from a heated coin applied to the back of the member's right wrist) and the Hand Sign of AKRHO was originally from OFSI but became part of AKRHO after the merger agreement between AKRHO and OFSI. From 1976, the new RITUAL was required for all new members and the Hand Sign was to recognise AKRHO members.
⚫
=== Hazing ===
{{Main articles|List of hazing deaths in the Philippines}}
Although Alpha Kappa Rho has publicly claimed that it does not practice hazing in its initiation rites, at least three people are confirmed to have died from AKRHO's hazing rituals since 2009.


⚫
== NDM73 ==
According to news reports, neophytes are subjected to "150 blows" with a wooden paddle which is then capped by the ceremonial burning of the circular scar on the right wrist using a coin (or the bottom of a metal [[permanent marker]]) wrapped in cigarette foil pressed into the skin three times while the applicant chants "I will protect the name of Alpha Kappa Rho."<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Mayol |first=Ador Vincent S. |date=2013-06-21 |title=Why frats survive despite hazing ban |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/430727/why-frats-survive-despite-hazing-ban |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=INQUIRER.net |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Mayol |first=Ador Vincent S. |date=2013-06-16 |title=Diverting fraternities away from violence to social devt |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/427291/diverting-fraternities-away-from-violence-to-social-devt |access-date=2023-06-22 |website=INQUIRER.net |language=en}}</ref>


5 out of the 16 Founders of Alpha Kappa Rho were alumni's of Notre Dame of Greater Manila High School (NDM HS) <ref>{{cite web | title = Notre Dame of Greater Manila | url = https://ndgm.edu.ph }}</ref>. Except for the leader and elder of the Fraternity, Jose "Boy" Chua who graduated in 1972, the others belonged to NDM HS graduating batch of 1973. A number of other NDM 1973 graduates would also later join AKRHO. <ref>{{cite web | title = Notre Dame of Greater Manila Alumni | url = http://219.90.91.248/ndgmalumni/ }}</ref>
On October 2, 2009, 17-year-old John Vincent Bernat, a student of [[Northern Mindanao State Institute of Science and Technology - Cabadbaran|Northern Mindanao State Institute of Science and Technology]], underwent the initiation rites of AKRHO. Bernat was rushed to a hospital immediately after but died of infection and hemorrhage two days later. At least one AKRHO member was arrested.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cantos |first=Joy |title=Estudyante utas sa hazing |trans-title=Student dead from hazing |url=https://www.philstar.com/probinsiya/2009/10/11/512694/estudyante-utas-sa-hazing |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com |language=Filipino}}</ref>


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== Junior AKRHO ==
On June 9, 2013, police raided the house of an AKRHO chapter president in Barangay Pardo, [[Cebu City]] after neighbors reported screaming inside a house. Police found two men with swollen buttocks and thighs, as well as a 30-inch wooden paddle bearing the logo of the fraternity. Two AKRHO members were arrested, but were later released when the victims refused to file charges.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2" />


In August 1975, AKRHO grew in numbers with the acceptance of High School students from the [[University of the East]] Recto campus (UE-Recto) into the fraternity. The first Junior AKRHO was headed by Jun "Labo" Pasaporte, Rey Quitariano (another NDM almuni) and Noriel Arcadio. They begun the Junior AKRHO not just in the High School of UE-Recto but also at the [[Far Eastern University]] (FEU), [[Philippine School of Business Administration]] (PSBA) and [[National College of Business and Arts]] (NCBA).<ref>{{cite web | title = Junior AKRHO | url = http://akpbato.webs.com/ }}</ref>
On August 9, 2020, Robert John Limpioso Fernandez, a 22-year-old tricycle driver from Barangay Cananlipa, [[Surigao City]], was declared dead-on-arrival after complaining of breathing difficulties. Fernandez had attended the AKRHO anniversary celebrations and was believed to have undergone initiation rites because of the bruises and burn marks found on his body.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Butuan |first=Bombo Radyo |date=2020-08-10 |title=Binata sa Surigao, patay sa hazing ng pinasukang fraternity |trans-title=Young man from Surigao dead from fraternity hazing |url=https://www.bomboradyo.com/binata-sa-surigao-patay-sa-hazing-ng-pinasukang-fraternity |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Bombo Radyo News |language=Filipino}}</ref>


== Initiation Rites ==
On September 18, 2022, 19-year-old criminology student August Caezar Saplot of the [[University of Mindanao]] died of serious injuries after undergoing AKRHO's initiation rites.<ref>{{Cite web |title=8 frat members arrested for hazing death of college student in Davao City |url=https://www.cnnphilippines.com/regional/2022/9/20/frat-members-arrested-for-hazing-death-college-student-Davao-City.html |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=cnn |language=en}}</ref> Police arrested eight AKRHO members and conducted manhunt operations for six other members who escaped.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-09-20 |title=Suspects in Davao's deadly frat hazing are UM criminology students |url=https://www.rappler.com/nation/mindanao/suspects-davao-deadly-akrho-hazing-university-mindanao-criminology-students/ |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=RAPPLER |language=en-US}}</ref>


The Fraternity after it was established in 1973 became notorious in the Philippines because of the initiation rites members had to undergo to join the Fraternity and fraternity wars that ensued.
=== Fraternity violence ===
Alpha Kappa Rho is known to have a long-standing rivalry with [[Tau Gamma Phi]] that has flared into street fights that resulted in deaths in the early 2000s, particularly in the province of [[Cebu]].<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":3">{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2013-07-22 |title=Vidal urges youth to shun frats, violence |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/450231/vidal-urges-youth-to-shun-frats-violence |access-date=2023-06-22 |website=Cebu Daily News |language=en}}</ref> Animosity between the two fraternities began in 1990, which escalated to the point where the police and local government of Cebu City summoned the leaders of the two fraternities in February 2002 to forge formal peace accords.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Borinaga |first=Ryan P. |title=Police getting ready for fraternity violence |url=https://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2005/07/07/285455/police-getting-ready-fraternity-violence |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref>


However, since the introduction of the Anti-Hazing Law by the Philippine Government in 1995 the Fraternity initiation rites are no longer sanctioned or approved by the Fraternity leadership. And in 1998, the Fraternity was registered as a non-profit, non-dividend Humanitarian Organization with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission.
In 2003, the accord broke down when a provincial vice president of Alpha Kappa Rho was murdered by alleged Tau Gamma Phi members along Sanciangko street in Cebu City. Tau Gamma Phi chapter president Jayber Oyon-Oyon was arrested in suspicion of the murder.<ref name=":1" />


Hence any and all accusations of hazing or involvement in fraternity wars have been condemned and disowned by the leadership of the Alpha Kappa Rho. Therefore this International Humanitarian Service Fraternity and Sorority has nothing to do with such activities.
In 2005, Cebu governor [[Gwendolyn Garcia]] again summoned the leaders of the two fraternities for peace talks, describing the conflict between the two fraternities as "deadly tantrums."<ref>{{Cite web |title=Fraternity violence: Gwen warns frat for snubbing her |url=https://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2005/09/21/297908/fraternity-violence-gwen-warns-frat-snubbing-her |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref> In January 2006, members of the fraternity were involved in a melee with Tau Gamma Phi members that injured several spectators during the [[Sinulog]] festival parade.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tom blasts frat leaders over Sinulog melee |url=https://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2006/01/18/317322/tom-blasts-frat-leaders-over-sinulog-melee |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref> In August of that same year, Alpha Kappa Rho's anniversary motorcade around Cebu City was marred by a shooting incident that killed one member and injured one teenaged member.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Melecio |first=Edwin Ian |title=Gunslay mars Akrho romp around city |url=https://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2006/08/09/351776/gunslay-mars-akrho-romp-around-city |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref> National and local leaders of the two fraternities again were summoned to a meeting with Cebu Provincial Police Office director Vicente Loot along with police officials from several Cebu towns and cities to plan activities to stem the violence and to sign a handwritten manifesto.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Loot meets with Tau, Akrho officials again |url=https://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2006/10/17/363519/loot-meets-tau-akrho-officials-again |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref>

Despite this, documented cases of fraternity-related violence have persisted since:

* On December 2007, Aristotle Aves was arrested while onboard a ferry bound for [[Ormoc|Ormoc, Leyte]]. One of Cebu's most wanted at the time, Aves has been tagged as an "AKRHO hitman" by the Cebu police with a {{Currency|300,000|PHP}} bounty offered by the Cebu provincial government. Aves was the main suspect for at least 17 fraternity-related killings in Cebu.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Melecio |first=Edwin Ian |title=Aves and Kin of victims face off: Akrho “hitman” faces 17 cases |url=https://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2007/12/05/31469/aves-and-kin-victims-face-off-akrho-ldquohitmanrdquo-faces-17-cases |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref> AKRHO regional president Richard Buscaino claimed that Aves has been suspended from the fraternity ever since he was tagged for murder.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2007-12-04 |title=Cebu frat hitman linked to 10 killings arrested |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/71310/cebu-frat-hitman-linked-to-10-killings-arrested/story/ |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=GMA News Online |language=en}}</ref> Aves and another AKRHO member were convicted of murder and two counts of frustrated murder in 2015.<ref>{{Cite web |date=July 30, 2015 |title=2 ‘fratmen’ tagged in drive-by killing in 2007 convicted |url=https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/23058 |website=SunStar Cebu}}</ref>
* On October 2011, Bobby Morados, a barangay councilor in Cebu City, tagged AKRHO as the culprits in a failed ambush that targeted and wounded him. Morados' son, allegedly a Tau Gamma Phi member, was one of the three fatalities of an October 2007 drive-by shooting perpetrated by Aristotle Aves, and is believed to be in retaliation of the 2006 AKRHO anniversary shooting.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Napallacan |first=Jhunnex |date=2011-10-06 |title=Barangay official links Akrho to failed ambush |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/71315/barangay-official-links-akrho-to-failed-ambush |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=INQUIRER.net |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Kin of drive-by shooting victims cry for justice |url=https://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2007/11/16/27800/kin-drive-shooting-victims-cry-justice |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref>
* On November 4, 2013, police arrested Arnel Solivar for the murder of a spokesman of the [[Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency]]. Police identified Solivar as another AKRHO hitman and an accomplice of Aristotle Aves. AKRHO regional president Buscaino again denied that Solivar is a member of the fraternity.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 5, 2013 |title=Gunman in PDEA staffer’s killing charged |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/520671/gunman-in-pdea-staffers-killing-charged |website=Inquirer.net}}</ref>
* On January 13, 2015, an AKRHO member was arrested for the murder of Jayford Romanillos, the son of a local police official and an alleged member of a rival gang.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lacamiento |first=Grace Melanie L. |title=Cop’s son shot dead; fratman arrested by cops |url=https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2015/01/13/1412464/cops-son-shot-dead-fratman-arrested-cops |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref>
* On October 10, 2018, three AKRHO members were charged with frustrated murder for shooting a 14-year-old boy whom they believed joined the Kalmados Gang, a rival group.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Manto |first=Mylen P. |title=3 AKRHO members charged with frustrated murder |url=https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2018/10/10/1858867/3-akrho-members-charged-frustrated-murder |access-date=2023-06-22 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref>
* On June 5, 2022, Tau Gamma Phi fratmen shot and wounded a member of AKRHO after an altercation between the groups in [[Minglanilla]], Cebu.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Logrono |first=Guam P. |last2=Lagunda |first2=Kevin A. |date=2022-06-05 |title=Tau Gamma fratmen shoot, wound Akrho member after disco in Minglanilla town |url=https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1931084/cebu/local-news/tau-gamma-fratmen-shoot-wound-akrho-member-after-disco-in-minglanilla-town |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=SUNSTAR |language=en}}</ref>
* On October 26, 2022, a 21-year-old member of AKRHO was stabbed and killed by two rival fraternity members in the [[Camotes Islands]], Cebu.<ref>{{Cite web |date=October 27, 2022 |title=2 men tagged in Akrho member’s death in Camotes rumble to face murder rap |url=https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1944586/cebu/local-news/2-men-tagged-in-akrho-members-death-in-camotes-rumble-to-face-murder-rap}}</ref>

Several other cases of Alpha Kappa Rho and Tau Gamma Phi members being murdered have been documented, however the identity of the perpetrators and motive could not be positively identified or have been intentionally withheld.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ugdol/GMR |first=Jojo C. |title=Akrho nga gipatay nailhan na |url=https://www.philstar.com/banat/balita/2014/08/11/1356274/akrho-nga-gipatay-nailhan-na |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Tulo gipamusil, 1 patay |url=https://www.philstar.com/banat/balita/2015/08/11/1487122/tulo-gipamusil-1-patay |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Marantal |first=Romeo D. |title=Frat leader shot dead |url=https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2023/04/12/2258331/frat-leader-shot-dead |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-04-12 |title=San Fernando police review video footage to identify Akrho leader’s gunman |url=https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1958378/cebu/local-news/san-fernando-police-review-video-footage-to-identify-akrho-leaders-gunman |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=SUNSTAR |language=en}}</ref> This includes the October 8, 2021 murder of former AKRHO national president<ref name=":3" /> and board of trustees member Richard Buscaino, who was ambushed and killed by motorcycle-riding gunmen in Cebu City. AKRHO's national leadership asked to avoid speculating on the affiliations of the gunmen, while Cebu police have also refused to reveal the identities of the persons of interest.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-10-10 |title=Fraternity members cry for justice for the murder of ex-frat officer |url=https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/405281/fraternity-members-cry-for-justice-for-the-murder-of-ex-frat-officer |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=INQUIRER.net |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Mascardo |first=Iris Hazel |title=Cops now have persons of interest in frat leader's slay |url=https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2021/10/12/2133533/cops-now-have-persons-interest-frat-leaders-slay |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref>

=== Recruitment abuse ===
On August 20, 2008, an alleged Alpha Kappa Rho initiator was charged with kidnapping and serious illegal detention with rape of a female minor in [[Minglanilla]], Cebu.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rape case vs Akrho member |url=https://www.philstar.com/cebu-news/2008/08/20/80328/rape-case-vs-akrho-member |access-date=2023-06-22 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref>

On May 27, 2011, a 16-year-old female high school student was raped and killed by Alpha Kappa Rho members Rodel Gelito and Joseph Onate in [[Boracay]], [[Aklan]]. The victim, along with seven other teenagers, joined fraternity initiation rites allegedly headed by the two AKRHO members who then raped and killed her, then dumped her body inside a cave in Sitio Lapuslapos Hills, Boracay. Gelito and Onate were arrested in November 2012.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2012-11-13 |title=Fratmen suspects in teen's rape-slay nabbed in Boracay |url=https://www.sunstar.com.ph/article/259937/fratmen-suspects-in-teens-rape-slay-nabbed-in-boracay |access-date=2023-06-22 |website=SUNSTAR |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Alquitran |first=Non |title=2 frat members in Boracay rape-slay nabbed |url=https://www.philstar.com/nation/2012/11/13/865957/2-frat-members-boracay-rape-slay-nabbed |access-date=2023-06-22 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref>

In 2018, three expelled members of Alpha Kappa Rho were arrested by Cebu police for recruiting minors, including two girls aged 11 and 12 who were allegedly forced to use ''[[Methamphetamine|shabu]]'' and were abused sexually. According to police, the ex-members illegally formed their own group using the name and logo of Alpha Kappa Rho to recruit minors without the fraternity's permission.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moradas |first=Ermida Q. |title=Ex-fratmen Behind ‘recruit abuse’ |url=https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2018/04/22/1808362/ex-fratmen-behind-recruit-abuse |access-date=2023-06-21 |website=Philstar.com}}</ref>

== Notable members ==

* [[File:IskoMorenoOfficialPortrait.jpg|thumb|150x150px|Isko Moreno, former mayor of Manila]][[Baron Geisler]], actor<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sun |first=Cherry |title=IN PHOTOS: Celebs na fraternity at sorority members |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/celebritylife/news/8281/in-photos-celebs-na-fraternity-at-sorority-members/photo |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=www.gmanetwork.com |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Zoren Legaspi]], actor
* [[Francis Magalona]], rapper and television personality<ref>{{Cite web |title=AKRHO Fraternity & Sorority |url=https://www.facebook.com/AkrhoNewsroom/posts/pfbid02SXWqnTq61jQ45rUkQJgWWwak4wG1PJJ2uwxhu28VpFdxhopDFsGhLZx6mkC3NCDbl |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=www.facebook.com |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Sam Milby]], actor and musician<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sun |first=Cherry |title=IN PHOTOS: Celebs na fraternity at sorority members |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/celebritylife/news/8281/in-photos-celebs-na-fraternity-at-sorority-members/photo |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=www.gmanetwork.com |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Chito Miranda]], lead singer of [[Parokya ni Edgar]]
* [[Cesar Montano]], actor and director<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sun |first=Cherry |title=IN PHOTOS: Celebs na fraternity at sorority members |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/celebritylife/news/8281/in-photos-celebs-na-fraternity-at-sorority-members/photo |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=www.gmanetwork.com |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Isko Moreno]], former mayor of [[Manila]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gonzales |first=Cathrine |date=2022-04-23 |title=AKRHO still nonpartisan though some Caraga members back Robredo |url=https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1586964/some-akrho-caraga-members-endorse-robredos-bid |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=INQUIRER.net |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Arnel Pineda]], lead singer of American rock band [[Journey (band)|Journey]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sun |first=Cherry |title=IN PHOTOS: Celebs na fraternity at sorority members |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/entertainment/celebritylife/news/8281/in-photos-celebs-na-fraternity-at-sorority-members/photo |access-date=2023-06-23 |website=www.gmanetwork.com |language=en}}</ref>


== See also ==
== See also ==
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== External links ==
== External links ==
* {{Official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20160121193554/http://www.alphakapparho1973.com/}}
* {{Official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20160121193554/http://www.alphakapparho1973.com/}}

[[Category:Student societies in the Philippines]]
[[Category:Fraternities and sororities in the Philippines]]
[[Category:Student organizations established in 1973]]
[[Category:1973 establishments in the Philippines]]

Revision as of 02:50, 25 June 2023

Alpha Kappa Rho International Humanitarian Service Fraternity
ΑΚΡ/ακρ
FoundedAugust 8, 1973; 50 years ago (1973-08-08)
University of Santo Tomas
TypeHumanitarian Service
ScopeInternational
MottoVincit Omnia Veritas
Colors  Red   Yellow   White
NicknamesSkeptrons, AKRHO


The Alpha Kappa Rho International Humanitarian Service Fraternity and Sorority (ακρ or AKRHO) is a fraternity established in the Philippines in 1973.[1] The fraternity, comprising men and women from different universities, was originally established to promote loyalty, unity and integrity in the fraternity amongst its members. It is registered as an International Humanitarian Service Fraternity and Sorority which encourages members to be involved in humanitarian projects and service.[2][3]

The fraternity is registered with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission as a non-profit and non-dividend corporation. it is now in other countries like Canada, USA and others [4][5] [6][7]

In 2014, President Benigno Aquino III published an official message congratulating the fraternity's Canada Toronto Chapter on its 41st anniversary.[8]

Foundation

The Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity was founded on August 8, 1973 by sixteen college students of the University of Santo Tomas (UST). Except for the leader and elder of the group, Jose "Boy" Chua, who was enrolled initially at the UST College of Medicine, the 15 other founders of Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity were enrolled at the UST College of Commerce. [9] The Alpha Kappa Rho original founders are namely:

  1. Jose "Boy" Chua
  2. Teddy De Lara (Deceased)
  3. Edwin Solano (Deceased)
  4. Obet Posadas
  5. Arnel Lorenzo
  6. James Bracewell (Deceased)
  7. Renato Go (Deceased)
  8. Philip Balangue
  9. Roger Sarmiento
  10. Ted Aves
  11. Eleuterio Lim
  12. Philip Diman
  13. Gil Villegas
  14. Mark Queyquep
  15. Noli Manalo (Deceased)

The Alpha Kappa Rho Sorority began in 1975 and the Sorority Founders are namely:[10]

  1. Girlie Tesoro (Deceased)
  2. Joyce Gregorio
  3. Alda Altiveros Bernabe
  4. Marisa Cumuyog
  5. JJ Aquino (Deceased)
  6. Irene Ileto
  7. Grace Mendoza

The Fraternity was founded on August 8 because it coincided with the Feast Day of St. Dominic, which is a university holiday at UST, which is run by the Dominican Order or also known as the Order of Priests (OP).

Motto

It's motto "Vincit Omnia Veritas" meaning "Truth Conquers All" or "Truth Prevails" comes from the emblem of the University of Santo Tomas where the Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity & Sorority was founded.[11] Members are called "Skeptrons" a Greek word for the "ceremonial staff” or sceptre carried by a monarch as a symbol of sovereignity.[12]

Merger

The Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity merged with the Omega Fraternity & Sorority International (OFSI) of San Sebastian College (SSC) and Zeta Upsilon Fraternity of the University of the East Recto campus (UE-Recto) in 1976. The RITUAL (Burn Mark which is a circular scar from a heated coin applied to the back of the member's right wrist) and the Hand Sign of AKRHO was originally from OFSI but became part of AKRHO after the merger agreement between AKRHO and OFSI. From 1976, the new RITUAL was required for all new members and the Hand Sign was to recognise AKRHO members.

NDM73

5 out of the 16 Founders of Alpha Kappa Rho were alumni's of Notre Dame of Greater Manila High School (NDM HS) [13]. Except for the leader and elder of the Fraternity, Jose "Boy" Chua who graduated in 1972, the others belonged to NDM HS graduating batch of 1973. A number of other NDM 1973 graduates would also later join AKRHO. [14]

Junior AKRHO

In August 1975, AKRHO grew in numbers with the acceptance of High School students from the University of the East Recto campus (UE-Recto) into the fraternity. The first Junior AKRHO was headed by Jun "Labo" Pasaporte, Rey Quitariano (another NDM almuni) and Noriel Arcadio. They begun the Junior AKRHO not just in the High School of UE-Recto but also at the Far Eastern University (FEU), Philippine School of Business Administration (PSBA) and National College of Business and Arts (NCBA).[15]

Initiation Rites

The Fraternity after it was established in 1973 became notorious in the Philippines because of the initiation rites members had to undergo to join the Fraternity and fraternity wars that ensued.

However, since the introduction of the Anti-Hazing Law by the Philippine Government in 1995 the Fraternity initiation rites are no longer sanctioned or approved by the Fraternity leadership. And in 1998, the Fraternity was registered as a non-profit, non-dividend Humanitarian Organization with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission.

Hence any and all accusations of hazing or involvement in fraternity wars have been condemned and disowned by the leadership of the Alpha Kappa Rho. Therefore this International Humanitarian Service Fraternity and Sorority has nothing to do with such activities.

See also

References

  1. ^ "Official AKRHO Website". Archived from the original on 2016-01-21. Retrieved 2015-04-07.
  2. ^ "Akrho Gets Green Light". Archived from the original on 2015-02-03. Retrieved 2013-11-10.
  3. ^ "Akrho Cleanup Graffiti".
  4. ^ "Message of President Aquino to the Alpha Kappa Rho-Toronto Chapter on the occasion of their 41st Founding Anniversary, August 8, 2014 | GOVPH". Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. 2014-08-08. Retrieved 2023-06-21.
  5. ^ "Akrho Grand 40 Year Salute". Archived from the original on 2013-09-26. Retrieved 2013-09-27.
  6. ^ "Alpha Kappa Rho joins Philippine Independence Day Celebration is Carson City, CA". {{cite web}}: |archive-date= requires |archive-url= (help)
  7. ^ "Alpha Kappa Rho adopts Aquarius Beach". {{cite web}}: |archive-date= requires |archive-url= (help)
  8. ^ "Message of President Aquino to the Alpha Kappa Rho-Toronto Chapter on the occasion of their 41st Founding Anniversary, August 8, 2014 | GOVPH". Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. 2014-08-08. Retrieved 2023-06-21.
  9. ^ "Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity 40th Anniversary".
  10. ^ "Alpha Kappa Rho Sorority".
  11. ^ "Vincit Omnia Veritas".
  12. ^ "Skeptrons".
  13. ^ "Notre Dame of Greater Manila".
  14. ^ "Notre Dame of Greater Manila Alumni".
  15. ^ "Junior AKRHO".
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