PNPA cadet dies of heat stroke

MANILA, Philippines — A cadet of the Philippine National Police Academy died of cardiac arrest due to heat stroke, the PNPA reported yesterday.

Rafael Sakkam died at the Qualimed Hospital in Sta. Rosa City, Laguna on Saturday night, according to PNPA director Maj. Gen. Alexander Sampaga.

Sampaga said Sakkam suffered heat stroke following a routine run on June 7.

The commandant of the PNPA tactics group had been ordered to implement safety measures and interventions to ensure that the cadets are hydrated during fitness trainings to prevent a repeat of the incident, according to Sampaga.

“The PNPA adjusted its non-academic activities. When the sun is high, fitness activities such as jogging and running would be avoided,” PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fernando said.

“Hydration of cadets should be ensured and they should be given medicines and vitamins for good resistance,” she added.

Fernando said Sakkam had passed the medical screening before entering the PNPA.

Sakkam’s remains were brought to his hometown in Zamboanga.