A newly accepted cadet of the Philippine National Police (PNP) died after suffering from cardiac arrest during a regular physical fitness activity inside the campus in Silang, Cavite on Saturday, June 18. .
Police Maj. Gen. Alex Sampaga, director of the PNP Academy, said Cadet Rafael D Sakkam fell unconscious during an afternoon road run and doctors said it was the effect of a heat stroke.
Sakkam, from Barangay Sinunuk in Zamboanga City, was immediately taken to the Qualimed Hospital in Sta Rosa City where he later died.
"The attending physician declared him dead at about 6:01 p.m. (Saturday) due to cardiac arrest," said Sampaga in a statement.
"The needs of Cadet Sakkam were all provided by the PNPA Administration during his hospitalization until his burial today following strict Islamic tradition. The family is likewise requesting for privacy as they mourn his demise," he added.
Following the incident, Sampaga said adopted tight measures and suitable interventions to guarantee sufficient hydration of all cadets during summer training and to prevent a repeat of the same from happening.
"We would like to reassure the public that the PNPA Administration will never cease working to establish effective yet proactive approaches to our cadets' training and development, with top priority given to their health, safety, and well-being," he said.