'Hero' cadet's fate at PMA uncertain

MANILA, Philippines - The fate of cadet Alfonso Aviles, who was shot in the head last month as he tried to prevent a robbery, at the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) is uncertain even as he woke up from a coma a few days ago.

“We will wait for the medical clearance from his doctor certifying his fitness to go back to his training in PMA,” academy spokesperson Captain Lynette Flores said, adding that many at the PMA consider him a “hero.”

The 23-year-old Aviles, who is supposed to graduate next year, can now follow simple instructions. “He bends his knees, sticks out his tongue, making thumbs up,” Flores said.

Aviles is undergoing physical therapy thrice a week at the V. Luna Medical Center.