A PHILIPPINE National Police Academy (PNPA) cadet died after allegedly being beaten up by an upperclassman on the evening of September 23, 2021.

Cadet 3rd Class George Carl Magsayo from Zamboanga City was found unconscious by his fellow cadets in one of the dormitory rooms of the academy.

They gave him first aid and alerted their officers, who called for an ambulance from the Academy Health Service.

Magsayo was pronounced dead by the responding physician from Qualimed Hospital.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Guillermo Eleazar said their investigation showed that Cadet 2nd Class Steven Ceasar Maingat punched Magsayo in the stomach five times before he collapsed.

Maingat is now under the custody of the Silang Municipal Police Station. Charges are expected to be filed against him on Monday, September 27.

Eleazar said he has ordered an in-depth investigation into Magsayo’s death.

PNPA Director Major General Rhoderick Armamento assured that they strictly maintain a no-to-hazing policy. He added that they have inculcated in the cadets the highest respect for human life and rights.

Magsayo’s remains tested negative for coronavirus and were turned over to his family. (Third Anne Peralta-Malonzo / SunStar Philippines)