MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III is now reviewing the appeal of Cadet First Class Aldrin Jeff Cudia, who was expelled days before graduation for allegedly lying about why he was late for class.

On Thursday, March 13, Communications Secretary Herminio “Sonny” Coloma Jr said Aquino is currently reviewing Cudia’s appeal to graduate with the rest of his Philippine Military Academy (PMA) class on March 16. (READ: Cudia not graduating)

“The Office of the President is currently studying the appeal,” Coloma said. “Truth and fairness are the primary guideposts in deciding this appeal.”

At the same time, Coloma defended the PMA’s Honor Code.

“The PMA Honor Code is an essential building block on the character formation of future leaders and members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Its basic objective is to prepare and fortify the mindset and the value set of the prospective Armed Forces officer as these will eventually be put to a severe test in the battlefield and arenas of conflict, where the officer will be deployed upon commissioning,” he said.

Coloma said Aquino is aware of the time-sensitive nature of the appeal and said he expects the President to come up with a decision before the graduation date. He gave assurances that all relevant recommendations and considerations are with the President.

Coloma also said there is still no confirmation that Cudia’s parents have asked to meet personally with the President to discuss their son’s case.

Cudia was in the running to graduate salutatorian. READ:( Did Cadet Cudia lie? Document shows details) 

The PMA Honor Code states that a cadet should “not lie, cheat, steal or tolerate those among them who do so.” Alumni and students of the PMA are intensely protective of their code.

Earlier, Armed Forces chief General Emmanuel Bautista ordered a re-investigation, following public outcry when Cudia’s family took their protest of his dismissal to social media. (Read: VIRAL: PMA alumni post cadet photos on Facebook)

On Tuesday, March 11, the PMA announced it is upholding the decision of the honors committee – a body composed entirely of students – to dismiss the cadet for violating the honor code. – Rappler.com