PNPA cadet maltreated twice — PNP exec

MANILA,Philippines — Cadet 4th Class John Desiderio of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) was reportedly maltreated by his upperclassmen at least twice, according to a police official.

Col. Prexy Tanggawohn, PNPA deputy director, said the incidents occurred last month.

“Mga dalawang araw ang pagitan nung mga insidente,” Tanggawohn said in phone interview yesterday.

Desiderio, son of a retired police officer, was taken to the PNP Hospital on Oct. 29 after he complained of stomach pain due to alleged hazing. He was later transferred to the East Avenue Medical Center. He reported for duty after he was discharged.

Five of Desiderio’s upperclassmen tagged in the alleged hazing were restricted to quarters while an investigation is ongoing.

Tanggawohn did not identify the suspects who are third and second class cadets.

He said the suspects reportedly attacked Desiderio over “offenses” which the victim committed.

Tanggawohn said they have yet to determine what led to the reported maltreatment.

It appeared that Desiderio’s injuries were due to repeated blows to his stomach.

Authorities said cadets found involved in hazing face dismissal.