The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomes the decision of the Baguio Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 5, which has convicted two former Philippine Military Academy (PMA) cadets of murder, and another former cadet of hazing, in relation to the tragic death of 4th Class Cadet Darwin Dormitorio in September 2019.
Judge Ligaya Itliong-Rivera of RTC Branch 5 in Baguio City found 3rd Class Shalimar Imperial Jr and Felix Lumbag Jr. guilty of murder, while former Cadet 3rd Class Julius Carlo Tadena was convicted for violating the anti-hazing law. All three have been sentenced to reclusion perpetua.
The Commission welcomes this ruling as it demonstrates the State’s commitment to ensuring that justice is served and that the rule of law remains the cornerstone of achieving accountability and justice in the country.
In line with this, the Commission reaffirms its stance of zero tolerance for hazing and advocates for its complete eradication in all educational institutions and non-school-based organizations, including military and army training programs. We strongly condemn this abhorrent practice, which violates the most fundamental human right—the right to life itself, especially among the youth.
It is imperative that we put an end to the culture of violence, particularly within the ranks of our future military leaders. The use of physical, mental, and psychological violence in training must be categorically rejected, and we must work together to ensure that such practices are never again allowed to take root. (CHR)