Three persons of interest linked to PMA cadet hazing now considered suspects

Three cadets at the Philippine Military Academy linked to the hazing of Cadet 4th Class Darwin Dormitorio and initially regarded as persons of interest were now considered as suspects in the case, according to a report by James Agustin on GMA News TV's Balitanghali Weekend.

Police did not identify the suspects but said two of them are 3rd Class cadets while one is a 1st Class cadet.

The 3rd Class cadets are currently in the stockade while the 1st Class cadet is in a holding center.

Other cadets meanwhile were placed under restrictive confinement pending investigation.

Dormitorio was found unconscious then rushed to the hospital on Wednesday. However he was declared dead on arrival.

The Baguio City Police Office is preparing charges to be filed against the three suspects.

According to Baguio City Police Office director Police Colonel Allen Rae Co, the autopsy results matched the accounts given by some cadets.

Investigation also showed that Dormitorio was brought to the hospital a number of times based on PMA Station Hospital records.

The first time was from August 20 to 27, then September 6, then September 17.

Police said Dormitorio had wounds when brought to the hospital in August.

The Philippine National Police is also looking into the possible criminal liability of the doctor and other staff of the PMA Station Hospital.

The PMA for its part said it will abide by the legal instructions of the PNP.

The military school confirmed on Friday that Dormitorio died of hazing.

The autopsy result showed that Dormitorio had bruises on different parts of his body that are probably the result of him being punched and kicked several times. 

The medico legal officer meanwhile, ruled out the possibility that a blunt object was used to hit Dormitorio.

The PMA on Friday said it would file appropriate administrative charges and shall apply sanctions to all those who will be found responsible for the death of Dormitorio.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday promised that all those involved in the hazing death of Dormitorio would be held accountable.

"We have already directed the Philippine Military Academy to conduct a thorough and speedy investigation to shed light into the incident. We will also hand over those responsible to proper authorities and let the wheel of justice turn," AFP Chief of Staff General Benjamin Madrigal said in a statement. —KG, GMA News