Freshman cadet died due to hazing – PMA; vows to file charges

BAGUIO CITY – The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has confirmed that 20-year old Cadet Fourth Class Darwin Dormitorio’s death was due to hazing.

At a press conference in Baguio City, PMA Superintendent Lt. Gen. Ronnie Evangelista said that Cadet Dormitorio died of blunt force trauma based on the forensic autopsy conducted on the body.

He said three upperclassmen of Cadet Dormitorio, a Cadet First Class and two Cadet Third Class is now under investigation and are now being detained at the holding center of PMA.

He assured that once proven, the said upperclassmen will face criminal and administrative charges for violating the RA 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018.

PMA is also investigating 20 other cadets who are witnesses to the crime and even the doctor who gave initial diagnosis to the victim and other academy officials for their lapses.

Based on the forensic autopsy, 2,000 cc of blood clotted in the internal organs of Cadet Dormitorio and bruises were found in his abdomen and back.

The report added that as of 8:00 AM, September 17, when he excused himself for not feeling well and at the evening the victim said he vomited inside their barracks and followed by another vomiting. He was brought to PMA Station Hospital around 4:00 AM but was declared dead around 5:00AM.

The body of Cadet Dormitorio is now being brought back to his home in Cagayan de Oro City.

(Edited by Bombo Sol Marquez)