PMA cadet succumbs to cancer

MANILA, Philippines — An aspiring military officer at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has died in a hospital where he was being treated for cancer.

“It is with a heavy heart that PMA announces the passing of Cadet 2nd Class Cedrick Gadia, who succumbed to his battle with cancer today 28 October 2019 at 5:15 AM, at the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) Medical Center,” said PMA spokesperson Cpt. Cherryl Tindog said in a statement.

Gadia’s ailment was detected after he was admitted at the Fort Del Pilar Station Hospital at PMA in August, and then he was brought to the AFP Medical Center in Quezon City the following month where he was diagnosed with Stage 4 esophageal cancer with liver and lung metastasis.

“PMA is deeply saddened for this unfortunate loss, and extends our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Cdt 2CL Gadia,” Tindog said.

The PMA is updating its medical protocols and hospital equipment to be able to detect and treat cadets with serious conditions that have not been detected through conventional examinations.

The tragedy shocked teachers and employees of the military school who are still reeling from the Sept. 18 hazing death of Cadet Fourth Class Darwin Dormitorio and the circulation of videos showing cadets beating underclassmen in 2018.

The PMA is currently arranging the transfer of Gadia’s remains from AFP Medical Center to Candon, Ilocos Sur.

“We will continue to assist him and his family to accord one of our own sons and members of the AFP with the due honor that befits him,” Tindog said.

Gadia would have been a member of PMA Class of 2021. /je