Senator Win Gatchalian on Wednesday called for a decisive crackdown on what he described as a “culture of violence” within the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA).
His statement follows the formal filing of criminal charges against cadets allegedly involved in a brutal hazing incident that has once again put the institution under intense scrutiny.
The charges stem from an April episode in Silang, Cavite, which reportedly left 22 plebes injured. Investigations revealed that some victims suffered severe chemical burns, highlighting the gravity of the physical abuse endured during the initiation rites.
Seeking Accountability
Authorities filed the complaints before the prosecutors’ office in Imus, Cavite.
Gatchalian emphasized that pursuing these cases under the Anti-Hazing Law is a critical step toward justice and serves as a warning to other institutions.
“Hindi na natin dapat kinukunsinti o binibigyang puwang ang ganitong uri ng pang-aabuso at karahasan, lalo na kung ito’y nagaganap sa institusyong inaasahang maghubog ng disiplina, integridad, at paggalang sa batas,” Gatchalian said.
A Call for Systemic Reform
The Senator urged the PNPA leadership to look beyond individual disciplinary actions and confront the underlying issues that allow these practices to survive despite existing laws.
He stressed that the training ground for future law enforcement officers should be the last place where lawlessness is bred.
“Moving forward, the PNPA should thoroughly review its policies to strictly enforce anti-hazing measures, and to root out the culture of violence that allows these ghastly practices to persist,” he added.
Solidarity with Victims
As investigations continue, the case has reignited a national conversation regarding persistent abusive practices within police training programs and the urgent need for deeper structural reforms.
Gatchalian concluded by expressing his support for those who came forward to report the abuse.
“Nakikiisa ako sa mga kadeteng naging biktima ng umano’y hazing sa kanilang paghahangad na makamit ang hustisya,” the Senator stated.