Kabataan calls for independent probe into PMA cadet's death in swimming pool

The Kabataan party-list on Saturday called on Congress to conduct an independent probe into the death of Cadet 4th Class Mario Telan, Jr. at the Philippine Military Academy on Friday.

In a statement, Kabataan stressed that the death of Telan is the third death inside the PMA in the last two months.

The first was hazing victim Cadet 4th Class Darwin Dormitorio who died on September 18, followed by Cadet 2nd Class Cedrick Gadia after his battle with cancer on October 28, and Telan on November 8.

According to PMA spokesperson Captain Cheryl Tindog, Telan attended his swimming class before he was found dead in the 15-foot deep end of the PMA pool on Friday.

Telan was declared dead on arrival at the PMA Station Hospital.

However, according to initial investigations conducted by the Baguio City Police, there was no indication of foul play in Telan's death.

"Fifteen feet po ang lalim ng pool. Sa initial findings natin, hindi po strong swimmer ang nasawing kadete at 'yun ang tinitignan natin,"  Baguio City police chief Police Colonel Allen Rae Co said in an interview on Dobol sa News TV.

Kabataan, meanwhile, offered sympathies to the family.

"We offer our condolences and sympathies to the bereaved family and loved ones as we join them in demanding justice and accountability," Kabataan said. —Joahna Lei Casilao/KG, GMA News