Malacañang ‘bothered’ by death of another PMA cadet

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang is “bothered” by the death of another Philippine Military Academy (PMA) cadet on November 8.

Cadet Fourth Class Mario Telan Jr. was found 15 feet underwater at the deep end of the PMA swimming pool.

READ: Initial findings show PMA cadet died from accidental drowning

Telan is the classmate of hazing victim Cadet Fourth Class Darwin Dormitorio.

“I understand the initial findings is that there was no foul play but they’re looking at the negligence of the instructor,” presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a Palace briefing.

Capt. Cheryl Tindog, PMA spokesperson, said security camera footage and an autopsy indicated that the plebe drowned.

“But we’re bothered by the death of another plebe who could be an outstanding military officer if he were able to finish his course,” Panelo said.

“So, the military instructors, especially on the swimming side, should reassess their protocols so that they can provide safety to their trainees,” he added.

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