Another Cadet Assaulted at PMA in 2024
BAGUIO CITY — The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) confirmed that a freshman cadet was harmed inside the barracks earlier this year. The premier military school disclosed the incident on Monday, stating that the perpetrators have been sanctioned, though they withheld further details.
This latest case of assault at PMA in 2024 came to light only after the cadet filed a police blotter report last week. He alleged hazing and abuse that occurred from September 2 to 29. The exact nature of the harm has not been publicly detailed.
Suspects and Medical Treatment
According to the report, two suspects were identified: a second-class cadet and a first-class cadet. The victim was hospitalized starting September 29, first at V. Luna Medical Center in Quezon City, then transferred to the PMA’s Fort Del Pilar Station Hospital.
He was discharged on June 30 after an eight-month stay. However, the specific medical reasons for such a lengthy confinement remain unclear.
Context of Assaults and Reforms at PMA
This incident happened just one month after a Baguio Regional Trial Court sentenced three former cadets to life imprisonment for the 2019 hazing death of plebe Darwin Dormitorio. Dormitorio died from internal injuries, prompting PMA to implement reforms aimed at eradicating hazing and abuse.
Among the officials responsible for these changes was Gen. Romeo Brawner, now the Armed Forces Chief of Staff.
Investigation and Institutional Response
Navy Lt. Jesse Nestor Saludo, chief of PMA’s public affairs office, stated, “We confirm that a thorough and impartial investigation was completed in accordance with our military justice system. The investigation found that a fourth-class cadet was harmed by a classmate in September 2024. The cadets involved have been sanctioned under AFP and CCAFP regulations.”
He added that the victim is on indefinite leave, awaiting discharge orders based on medical findings unrelated to the assault. “We respect the decision of the cadet’s family should they choose to pursue legal remedies in civilian courts,” Saludo said.
These developments highlight ongoing challenges in fully eradicating hazing and violence within the academy despite reforms.
For more news and updates on PMA cadet assaults, visit Filipinokami.com.