3 charged over hazing that injured 22 PNPA freshman cadets

Twenty-two fourth-class, or freshman, cadets of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) sustained third-degree burns after upperclassmen allegedly doused them with muriatic acid during hazing rites.

According to Jun Veneracion’s report on “24 Oras” Monday, the suspects were three third-class or sophomore cadets. The three have been arrested and charged for violation of the Anti-Hazing Law.

“Just to show you how gruesome it was, may isa doon umabot hanggang kanyang anus at bumaba hanggang sa kanyang scrotum ang damage. Ganun kasama ang ginawa nila,” Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said in a press briefing.

(Just to show you how gruesome it was, in one case the damage reached the anus and extended down to the scrotum. That is how severe it was.)

Four other sophomore cadets are also under investigation and are expected to face charges as co-conspirators.

“Base sa latest investigation ng CIDG, di umano ang nag-utos sa mga nasabing third class ay mga second class cadets,” said PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño.

(Based on the latest investigation by the CIDG, it was allegedly the second-class cadets who ordered the third-class cadets to carry out the act.)

“I feel like the three have psychological problems. There will be no settlement for these three arrested suspects. I will ensure, to the full extent of my authority, that they will be charged under the Anti-Hazing Law,” Remulla said.

The incident occurred on April 3, but it took four days before the full report was submitted to PNP leadership. Citing command responsibility and lapses in handling the case, the PNP said some PNPA officials are expected to be relieved.

Nine PNPA officials are set to undergo pre-charge investigation, including its director, Police Major General Andre Dizon.

“So as an effect, there will be a reshuffle or movement in the PNP organization, especially those involved include two-star and one-star officials, including a commandant,” said PNP chief Police General Melencio Nartatez Jr.

(The PNP organization will undergo reshuffling or movement, especially since those involved include two-star and one-star officials, including a commandant.)

The victims are undergoing medical and psychological treatment, the report said.

“In this form of torture, this is the worst I’ve ever seen. How can you enforce the law if you break the law?” Remulla said.

The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM), meanwhile, ordered sweeping institutional changes in the PNPA.

“I have directed NAPOLCOM Commissioners Josephus G. Angan and Beatrice Aurora Vega-Cancio to come up with sweeping, bold, and decisive institutional changes in the PNPA to root out and eliminate this culture of hazing,” said NAPOLCOM Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Calinisan.—Vince Angelo Ferreras/MCG, GMA News