THE 6th Infantry Division (6th ID) of the Philippine Army is investigating the death of Private Charlie G. Patigayon, a 22-year-old rookie soldier who died after collapsing during a traditional welcome ceremony at the 6th Infantry Battalion (IB) headquarters in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur on Wednesday, July 30.
According to a military report, Patigayon, hailing from Kolambungan, Lanao del Norte, collapsed while undergoing a welcome ceremony with other new soldiers. He was immediately transported to Camp Siongco Hospital but succumbed to his injuries the following day. Initial medical findings indicate kidney failure as the cause of death.
Lt. Col. Roden Orbon, spokesperson for the 6th ID, confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine whether any abuses contributed to Patigayon’s death.
While there are no immediate indications of physical abuse, the 6th ID has relieved some senior Army personnel from their posts at the 6th IB pending the outcome of the investigation. T
he family has requested an autopsy to aid the investigation, and the 6th ID is cooperating fully with local police in Cotabato City to facilitate this.
The 6th ID emphasized its zero-tolerance policy towards practices that endanger soldiers, stating that all welcome ceremonies must adhere strictly to military regulations and policies. The division will provide assistance to transport Patigayon’s remains to his hometown in Lanao del Norte.
