By Priam Nepomuceno | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine Army (PA) is investigating the death of a rookie soldier, supposedly during reception rites at his unit in Maguindanao del Norte last week, an official said Monday.
In a message to reporters, PA spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said two officers and 19 enlisted personnel have been relieved amid the ongoing investigation.
According to reports, Pvt. Charlie Patigayon, 22, was undergoing reception rites with other soldiers at the 6th Infantry Battalion headquarters in Barangay Capiton, Datu Odin Sinsuat when he collapsed on July 30. Patigayon, a native of Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte, died the following day.
Reception rites are a series of exercises new soldiers are instructed to do when reporting to their units.
“We assure Pvt. Patigayon’s family that the PA is committed to pursuing justice,” Dema-ala said in a statement.
“Should the investigation confirm wrongdoing, those responsible will be held fully accountable under the military justice system and all applicable laws,” he added.
The Army spokesperson stressed that in compliance with the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018, the PA “upholds a zero-tolerance policy against any practices that endanger the safety and well-being of its personnel.”
Aside from pursuing justice, Dema-ala said the PA is also providing all the necessary assistance and support to Patigayon’s family.
“While no form of compensation can ever replace the life of a soldier, we are committed to honoring Pvt. Patigayon’s service and to (ease) the burden on his loved ones,” he said. (PNA)
