ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff Noel Clement said on Monday, October 7, that they are looking at the possibility of tapping a third party to review the policies and introduce reforms at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) following several maltreatment incidents there.
“We might get third party people that can help us look into what systems have to be changed in PMA,” he said in an interview with reporters.
Clement said they will implement reforms not only for the training of cadets but also for the military officials assigned there.
“It’s going to be an institution-wide review for the long term to solve the problem of hazing,” he said.
Clement made the statement following the death of Cadet 4th class Darwin Dormitorio from cardiac arrest secondary to internal hemorrhage on September 18. Dormitorio's injuries were sustained from hazing.
The military chief said at least 12 cadets were detained over their involvement in Dormitorio’s death.
Aside from Dormitorio, Clement said seven more cadets were confined due to maltreatment.
After the said maltreatment incidents, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana ordered the implementation of reforms, such as regular physical check-up to detect any maltreatment. (SunStar Philippines)