Statement on the 24 July 2022 Incident at Areté

The Ateneo Law Journal, in solidarity with the entire Ateneo community, strongly condemns the vile and horrific acts of violence that transpired during the commencement exercises at Areté, Loyola Heights campus.

A supposedly joyous occasion turned out to be a traumatic ordeal for the graduates of Ateneo Law Class of 2022, their loved ones, and the University’s faculty and staff. The Journal would like to extend its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the three individuals who lost their lives during the incident — former Lamitan City Mayor Rose Furigay, her security detail Victor Capistrano, and Loyala Schools security guard, Jeneven Bandiala.

As we mourn for the lives that were lost, we continue to pray that their families and loved ones find comfort and solace during this challenging time. Let our petitions likewise include the healing of the body, mind, and spirit of those who witnessed and those who were injured during the tragic incident. Our hope rests in the light of the truth to ensure that justice will truly be served.

Out of respect for the victims and their families, we humbly request the public to stop sharing unverified information about the incident. We implore the Ateneo Law Community to assist in reporting the graphic pictures and videos circulating on social media and to contribute to verified donation drives for Mr. Bandiala’s family.