SILANG, Cavite — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has arrested three sophomore cadets from the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) for allegedly subjecting at least 22 underclassmen to severe hazing rituals involving hazardous chemicals.
The incident, which took place in the early hours of April 3, 2026, at the academy’s barracks in Camp General Mariano Castañeda, has sparked outrage and a high-level investigation into institutional oversight.
According to reports from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Calabarzon, the three suspects were taken into custody on the night of April 7.
- The Victims: At least 22 plebes (freshman cadets) sustained physical injuries and chemical burns.
- The Method: The victims were allegedly exposed to a caustic mixture of drain cleaner and muriatic acid.
- The Motive: Investigators state the hazing was triggered after the plebes were collectively blamed for an issue involving a fellow cadet who expressed an intention to resign.
The arrested sophomores have undergone inquest proceedings for violating Republic Act No. 11053, or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018. If convicted, they face life imprisonment and will be summarily expelled from the academy.
- Command Responsibility: The tactical officer responsible for supervising the barracks at the time has been relieved of duty.
- Expanding Investigation: Authorities are currently identifying seven other “John Does” believed to have been involved in or present during the ritual.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that the police force has “zero tolerance” for such archaic and illegal practices. “There are no sacred cows here. We are building a police force that is disciplined and professional,” Nartatez stated.
The National Police Commission (Napolcom) has also intervened, creating a specialized task force to investigate the incident. Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Calinisan condemned the activity, noting that such violence should never occur in an institution tasked with shaping the future leaders of the nation’s law enforcement.
The victims are currently receiving medical treatment for their burns and psychological support to address the trauma of the incident.