THE COMMISSION on Human Rights denounced the tragic death of Cadet Third Class George Karl Magsayo, who was allegedly punched repeatedly by an upperclassman in the Philippine National Police Academy.

On Sept. 21, Magsayo, 21, was punched in the stomach by Cadet Second Class Steve Ceasar Maingat while they were inside their dormitory in Silang, Cavite, police said.

Magsayo lost consciousness and was rushed to the hospital but he was declared dead on arrival.

“The Commission deeply condoles to the family and friends of Magsayo. It is strongly condemnable that another tragic death happened due to violence within an institution where young people are supposed to build their dreams, acquire skills, and develop their character,” CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia said.

“This incident glaringly deviates from the values of justice, integrity, and service that the institution espouses,” she added.

De Guia said CHR Region IV-A is now conducting an independent probe to ensure justice for Magsayo.

“As a law enforcement learning institution, it is integral that PNPA students imbibe core values that will make them exemplary law enforcers in the future, and with no propensity for violence or abuses,” she said.

De Guia welcomed the directive of PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar to PNPA officials to review the rules, regulations, and academic policies to prevent violence among cadets.

“Considering the past incidents of violence that resulted in deaths of young cadets, it is expedient that concrete measures are done to prevent violence and obliterate any culture or tradition that normalizes violence within the academy,” De Guia said.