PMA cadet drowns after saving brod, uncle in Ilocos dam

MANILA, Philippines - The military yesterday praised a Philippine Military Academy (PMA) cadet who died of drowning after saving his brother and uncle in an irrigation dam in Cervantes, Ilocos Sur Wednesday, saying he demonstrated selflessness at the cost of his own life.

Armed Forces spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said the act of PMA cadet Bryx Lee Betong “reflects the heroic nature of cadets undergoing training for leadership.”

“He was unmindful of himself and he chose to be of service to others,” Burgos said.

PMA spokesperson Capt. Lynette Flores said Betong, a second-class cadet on vacation leave, made the “ultimate sacrifice” to save his brother Bryan Paul and uncle.

“The display of courage and boldness showcases the virtues that PMA has instilled in him during his stay in the academy as a cadet,” Flores said.

The two brothers were in Cervantes town for a family gathering when Bryan Paul and his uncle decided to take a swim in the irrigation dam. But strong current tried to pull them down, until Betong came to their rescue – at the cost of his own life. – Alexis Romero, Artemio Dumlao, Raymund Catindig