Baguio police chief sees 'negligence' in latest PMA cadet death

The chief of Baguio police on Monday said it is "almost certain" that the death of Cadet Fourth Class Mario Telan Jr. was due to the negligence of the swimming instructors of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

According to Police Colonel Allen Co, authorities are still finalizing the investigation report on the drowning incident, the latest unfortunate incident to mar the military school after Darwin Dormitorio's hazing-related death in September.

“It is almost a certainty that the tragic death of Cadet Telan was a result of negligence on the part of the instructors,” Co told GMA News Online.

Co further said police are studying what cases will be filed against the swimming instructors, but he said they could face negligence and reckless imprudence cases.

The PMA’s spokesperson, Captain Cherryl Tindog, has said two swimming instructors are being investigated on the incident. She added that the CCTV footage are also being reviewed to determine the supposed negligence of the instructors.

“Ongoing pa rin po ang probe," Tindog said in a text message. "We are also waiting for the final report.”

Tindog said other plebes who were part of the swimming class would also be investigated.

Telan was found dead in the 15-foot deep end of the pool last Friday. He was declared dead on arrival at the PMA Hospital.

Initial investigations conducted by the Baguio police showed no indications of foul play in the drowning incident. —KBK, GMA News