The Philippine Military Academy is facing yet another issue of hazing.
Five of six PMA cadets are detained in the academy’s holding center as authorities investigate the maltreatment of plebes, Inquirer reported.
The six cadets were were caught on video beating up four plebes in 2017 and 2018. The PMA said one of the cadets had been discharged last year due to a violation of the PMA Honor Code.
A military report revealed that at least 27 cases of alleged maltreatment are being investigated by the academy, Inquirer added.
Inquirer adds, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said 52 cadets have been confined in connection with the 27 cases documented between Sept. 16 and 27.
22 fourth class cadets, or plebes, were reported to have been confined in different hospitals for alleged maltreatment as of Sept. 27, the report added.
This new wave of alleged maltreatment cases comes after Darwin Dormitorio’s death that sparked public outrage.
The fourth class cadet died on Sept. 18 after alleged maltreatment by his upperclassmen. Seven senior cadets, two tactical officers and three military doctors have been charged in connection with his death.
“Cases have been filed, drastic actions are being undertaken and reforms being instituted to rid the PMA of maltreatment. We fervently hope and pray that the PMA will be allowed to make good [on] our commitments,” Inquirer quoted PMA PIO Captain Cheryl Tindog as saying.
She added, “The PMA is not a perfect organization [and has] in the ranks of the cadet corps misfits who need to be dealt with accordingly.” (LB)
