AFP still working on Cudia report to Aquino

Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala. From the official Twitter account of the Armed forces of the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is still investigating the case of dismissed Philippine Military Academy (PMA) cadet Jeff Aldrin Cudia, Malacañang said Tuesday.

In a message relayed by Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, AFP spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said, “The special investigation board created by the Chief of Staff (of the AFP) upon direction of the President is still investigating and we are waiting for results with thoroughness and fairness.”

“We seek everyone’s patience,” Zagala said.

Cudia’s father Renato earlier complained of President Benigno Aquino III’s inaction on their appeal.

“We gave (President Aquino) a chance. We were silent for a week. He asked for one week to find a solution and address our concern but nothing happened. Up to now we are still waiting,” the father said.

He was referring to a meeting they had with Aquino on March 15, the day before the PMA graduation. After the meeting, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said that while Cudia will not be able to join the commencement exercises, another investigation would be launched by AFP Chief of Staff General Emmanuel Bautista.

However, Zagala said there was no timeline given.

“What I know is the report is being written. On when to be submitted to the President, this is still being determined,” he said.

On Tuesday, Filipina Cudia, the cadet’s mother,                 submitted a 60-page petition to the Supreme Court, asking it to annul the ruling of the PMA Honor Committee and the Cadet Review and Appeals Board, which found his son guilty of violating the Honor Code.

Despite the Cudia family’s criticism against Malacañang, Coloma said they welcome the filing of the case.

“Siguro po mainam din na magkaroon ng ganitong proseso dahil ito naman ay isang lehitimong paraan na sya bilang isang mamamayan ay makakakuha ng katarungan,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma said.

(Perhaps it is better they undergo such a process since it is a legitimate option for a citizen seeking justice.)

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