Palace assures: It's not over yet for Cudia

MANILA, Philippines - There is no update yet from the office of President Benigno Aquino III on the appeal of cadet Aldrin Jeff Cudia to reverse his dismissal from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

This is what Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said on Friday, but assured that it's not over yet for the aspiring soldier who was set to graduate as No. 2 in his class.

"Cudia is not left without recourse. There are several things that are in play, that are in process. So let's wait for a determination of that," Valte said at a televised press briefing.

"Certainly there would have to be a closing on this particular issue necessarily," she added.

Valte also recognized that there have been other "movements" since Public Attorney's Office chief Persida Acosta is now heading to Baguio City for a conference with the PMA Honors Committee.

On Thursday, Presidential Communications Secretary Sonny Coloma said Aquino himself was already reviewing the appeal of Cudia.

He said "it is reasonable to expect" a quick judgement from the President and that "truth and fairness are primary guide posts in deciding."

Cudia was dismissed from the PMA for supposedly lying on why he was late for class. His actions were found to be in violation of the school's Honor Code.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines said the final decision should be from Aquino since he is commander-in-chief of the military.

Aquino is set to attend the PMA graduation rites on March 16, Sunday in Baguio City.