Third cadet dies at PMA since September

BAGUIO CITY — A classmate of slain Cadet Fourth Class Darwin Dormitorio was found dead at the Philippine Military Academy swimming pool on Friday (Nov. 8), the third cadet to pass away in a matter of months.

Cadet Fourth Class Mario Telan Jr. was found 15 feet underwater at the deep end of the pool when classmates began searching for him after he attended his 11 a.m. swimming class which ended at noon, said Capt. Cheryl Tindog, PMA spokesperson.

“Efforts were done to revive him and he was immediately transferred to Fort del Pilar Station Hospital, but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician,” she said.

The Philippine National Police is investigating the cadet’s death to determine if it was an accidental drowning.

“All needed actions and protocols are being undertaken to deal with any infraction and/or irregularity. Likewise, all swimming classes of the cadets are temporarily halted until such time that the incident has been properly addressed,” Tindog said.

Dormitorio died on Sept. 18 from injuries inflicted by a series of beatings, and seven cadets have been charged for his hazing and murder, while top PMA officials have been charged with dereliction of duty that resulted in a fatality.

On Oct. 28, Cadet Second Class Cedrick Gadia died from esophageal cancer at the Armed Forces of the Philippines Hospital, where he had been confined.

“PMA deeply grieves for this unfortunate loss of one of our sons. All necessary assistance will be extended to the bereaved family and loved ones of Cadet Telan,” Tindog said. Vincent Cabreza INQ