PNPA cadet dies after being punched by upperclassman

MANILA, Philippines — A cadet of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) died after he was allegedly repeatedly punched by his upperclassman on Thursday.

Cadet 3rd Class George Karl Magsayo, a native of Pagadian City in Zamboanga del Sur, died after being “bogged down” in their dormitory on Thursday night, PNPA public information office chief Lt. Col. Louie Gonzaga said.

A report from the police in Silang, Cavite, where the PNPA is located, showed that Cadet 2nd Class Caesar Steve Maingat punched Magsayo five times as ”punishment.”

The incident reportedly occurred when the victim and another cadet went to Maingat’s room at around 5:40 p.m.

Magsayo fell unconscious and was taken to the Qualimed Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Prior to the the incident, Magsayo reportedly sent a photo of the back of his head to his friend, which showed what appeared to be a wound.

“Akala mo masaya dito ah hahaha,” the chat message Magsayo sent to his friend on June 21 read, a screeshot of which was shown to reporters yesterday.

“We would like to assure everyone especially the family of the deceased that we will make anyone accountable should the findings so warrant and give justice to whom it is due,” Gonzaga said.

The PNPA formed a team to probe Magsayo’s death, which Gonzaga described as an” isolated incident.”

Gonzaga said the PNPA observes its no-hazing policy, adding the institution “condemns in the strongest possible terms any acts that are violative of the same.”

PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said the Silang police would file charges against Maingat on Monday.