Gamboa believes no lapses within PNPA health protocols amid cadets’ deaths

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Archie Francisco Gamboa on Monday said he does not believe that there are lapses in the health protocols of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) following the death of two cadets last week.

"Sa tingin ko naman, alam niyo pinag-usapan nga namin kanina kung gaano ka-light 'yung kanilang exercises... they are averaging 1.3 kilometers per day, 'yun 'yung pinaka-strenuous kasi 'yun 'yung takbo..." Gamboa said during a press briefing.

"I don't know ano nangyari, ako naman aminado ako na wala naman sigurong pagkukulang doon sa health protocol but again, we still need to review it and really find out from the findings kung ano naging dahilan bakit namatay 'yung dalawa..." Gamboa added.

Gamboa has ordered the suspension of activities for plebes in the police academy after two cadets died last week. Reports said Cadet Fourth Class Kenneth Ross Alvarado, who collapsed while participating in evening mess formation at 5:30 p.m. of Wednesday, died due to heat stroke.

Days after, Cadet Fourth Class Jiary Jasen Papa died due to hypokalemia or electrolyte imbalance.

Following these deaths, Gamboa said more or less 350 PNPA cadets and at least 20 members of the training staff would undergo RT/PCR test for COVID-19.

"Ayokong isantabi na possibility na may mga infections sa training camps because of other experiences abroad. Kasi siyempre magkakasama sila, pag sumasagot, sumisigaw... 'yung iba siyempre lumilipad 'yung ano... tapos we also have to revisit also the kind of PPEs that are being issued, especially 'yung trainees..." Gamboa said.

Asked when the PNPA would resume activities for the cadets, the PNP chief said he is eyeing that authorities would finish their inquiry on the matter within a week.

Gamboa said there would be a meeting with PNPA and National Police Training Institute officials this morning to discuss what needs to be improved in the training of cadets. — RSJ, GMA News