The University of Santo Tomas Faculty (UST) of Civil Law Dean Nilo Divina on Thursday said that his inclusion in the immigration watch list over the fatal hazing case of UST freshman law student Horacio “Atio” Castillo III is “unfortunate,” saying it is “not entirely unexpected.”
In a statement, Divina, however, said that he would submit with any directive the Department of Justice (DOJ) will issue.
“It is clear that I have no liability because I have no prior actual knowledge of the alleged hazing incident and I am not a party to any cover-up,” Divina said.
“I am committed to fulfill my duties that require my presence. At the same time, I will not hesitate to challenge any act which transgresses my right,” he added.
In an order released on Thursday by the DOJ, Divina and 50 other individuals allegedly involved and liable in the fatal hazing of Castillo have been added to the Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order.
Most of those in the list are lawyers and members of the fraternity.
Immigration officials can’t stop people on the lookout bulletin from leaving the country. However, it is mandatory for them to notify the DOJ if they do. Only a court-issued Hold Departure Order can block them from leaving.
Divina also expressed confidence that he will be vindicated and his name will be cleared soon.
He also said that he took a leave of absence from the fraternity when he became the dean eight years ago.
More than 40 names were also added to the list.