Clement to PMA cadet corps: Don’t be afraid to speak in the midst of injustice

BAGUIO CITY - Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Lieutenant General Noel Clement on Tuesday encouraged the Philippine Military Academy's cadet corps to look out for each other and speak during times of injustice.

"Do not be afraid to speak in the midst of injustice. Just like your code of honor that you do not lie, cheat, steal or tolerate among you those who do," Clement said in his speech during the PMA's change of command ceremony.

"I encourage you to adapt a code of leadership, that you do not maltreat nor tolerate among you those who do," Clement added.

During the PMA change of command ceremony, Rear Admiral Allan Cusi, former deputy commander of the Philippine Navy, formally assumed post as the new superintendent of the military school.

Cusi replaced Lieutenant General Ronnie Evangelista who had resigned following the hazing-death incident involving Cadet Fourth Class Darwin Dormitorio.

The AFP chief reminded the cadet corps that when they took oath and wear their uniforms, they are already part of the PMA and the AFP, reminding them that they have the duty to protect those institutions.

"How can the Filipino people expect that you can protect them and our country in the future, when as early as now, you cannot even protect our alma mater and your buddies, squadmates and underclass from harm," Clement said.

"Maltreatment has never been right and will never be right in any circumstances and in any individual," he added.

Authorities had confirmed that Dormitorio had died due to hazing. Results of the autopsy had shown that the 20-year-old PMA cadet bore severe bruises in his body.

A flashlight with a built-in taser was also used to hurt Dormitorio.

Police have already identified seven suspects who will be facing charges for murder and for violating the Anti-Hazing Law.

Meanwhile, Clement also called on the staff and personnel of the military school to educate and train cadets to the best of their abilities.

"You can only do that job by taking care of them and being good role models that they can emulate, especially to the tactical officers who are directly responsible in molding their leadership qualities," Clement said. — RSJ, GMA News