9 PNPA officials face probe over hazing

MANILA, Philippines — The police directorate for investigation and detective management (DIDM) has recommended the conduct of a pre-charge investigation against nine officials of the Philippine National Police Academy over the hazing of PNPA cadets on April 3.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. approved the recommendation to have a PNPA major general, brigadier general, two colonels, two majors, a chief master sergeant and two senior master sergeants investigated over the incident that left 22 fourth-class cadets injured inside academy barracks in Silang, Cavite.

The pre-charge probe aims to determine possible liabilities of the nine officials. The findings may lead to a reshuffling within the police organization, particularly among PNPA officers.

Initially, the DIDM cited lapses in supervision and internal discipline, including the failure to ensure the safety of cadets and the delayed reporting of the case to Camp Crame.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said the incident involved “inhuman forms of hazing,” wherein the cadets were doused with a mixture of caustic chemicals, including muriatic acid and liquid drain cleaner, causing severe burns.

“This is unacceptable. The injuries were severe, with burns extending to different parts of the body,” Remulla said.

Three third-class cadets have been arrested and charged for violation of Republic Act 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018. The case was filed before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Imus, Cavite on April 8.

But authorities continue to investigate other cadets who might have been involved in the incident, with at least four already identified.

Nartatez said the investigation would determine both criminal and administrative liabilities.

As part of the probe, 223 members of PNPA Class 2029 underwent medical examination, with 48 cadets – 33 men and 15 women – found to have injuries.

Authorities have yet to determine whether the injuries were due to hazing or regular training activities. The cadets were referred to the Regional Forensic Unit 4A for medico-legal assessment.

Initial findings showed that the victims were isolated inside the barracks and subjected to punishment by upperclassmen following an issue involving a cadet who wanted to resign.

Remulla stressed that hazing has no place in police training.

“Hazing does not make you a better police officer. It is a function of ego and abuse. This has got to stop,” he said.

Sweeping reforms

The National Police Commission said it would implement sweeping reforms in the PNPA to address the persistent problem of hazing, as the Napolcom reiterated its strongest condemnation of the incident.

Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan said he has directed Commissioners Josephus Angan and Beatrice Aurora Vega-Cancio to implement sweeping and institutional changes in the PNPA.

“Hazing will stop under our watch,” Calinisan vowed.

In a statement, the Napolcom stressed that hazing is a grave violation of the law and an affront to human dignity.

It stressed that the PNPA must uphold discipline anchored on respect for human rights and accountability.