PMA cadet awakens from coma

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City -- Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Cadet 1st class Alfonso Aviles, who was in a critical condition after being shot while reacting to a robbery incident, is out of the woods.

“Cadet Aviles has improved a lot. Categorically speaking he is out of coma,” said Captain Agnes Lynette Flores, PMA information chief,

“At this moment, the PMA is more concerned sa speedy recovery nya. When he is fully recovered, we will see if he will be given medical clearance to continue with his training in the PMA,” Flores added.

Flores said Aviles can now follow simple instructions. “He bends his knees, sticks out his tongue, making thumbs up.”

The official said they are happy with the remarkable development of Aviles. “The entire PMA is continuously praying for the speedy and full recovery of Cadet Aviles.”

Aviles is undergoing physical rehabilitation three times a week to be able to fully recover.

It was reported that Aviles thwarted an ongoing robbery inside a passenger jeep in Quezon City on August 25, where the graduating PMA cadet tried to grab the robber’s gun of but was shot in the neck.

The gunman then fled taking with him the bullring of the young aspiring soldier.

The Philippine National Police is coordinating with the Armed Forces and has narrowed down culprits to three suspects.

Flores said there are no specific suspects identified as of the moment but stressed, “The PNP and the Quezon City Police Department are really putting their hands on the case to bring to the folds of the law the person who shot Cadet Aviles.”

Flores said the cadet corps have “passed the hat” for their voluntary contribution as financial support to the family of Cadet Aviles.

Flores said the PMA command, on the other hand, assured the family of Aviles assistance particularly the expenses for his medical requirement. “We are facilitating closely his medical needs and provide moral support to the family.”