SEA GAMES TWO-TIME GOLD MEDALIST MERVIN GUARTE STABBED TO DEATH


Philippine sports were in a state of shock after Southeast Asian Games double gold medalist Mervin Guarte suffered a tragic death (Photo courtesy of Philippine Sports Commission)
A seasoned athlete and national pride, Southeast Asian Games double gold medalist Mervin Guarte was killed in his sleep early morning on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro according to authorities.
Philippine National Police (PNP) MIMAROPA reported that an unidentified suspect entered the house and stabbed the 32-year-old multi-medalist and member of the Philippine Air Force (PAF).
It said that the athlete was sleeping in the house of a barangay councilman when the incident occurred. Guarte was still able to call for help and was brought to the hospital, but eventually passed away.
Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito Dolor condemned the killing and vowed swift justice. “We continue to communicate with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to find the person behind the murder of Mervin Guarte. We have given a directive to the PPO-OrMin led by PCOL Edison Revita to immediately achieve justice.”
Several national athletes expressed their shock over Guarte’s murder. Olympic pole vaulter EJ Obiena posted a tribute for Mervin, who was his national teammate and friend. Olympic marathon runner Mary Joy Tabal also extended her condolences. SEA Games gold medalist Kyle Antolin also mourned the loss of his friend.
The Philippine Sports Commission likewise paid tribute to Guarte. "The Philippine sports community mourns the untimely death of Mervin Guarte, a long-time member of the national team and a multi-medalist from the Southeast Asian Games. Rest in peace! Thank you for your service to the country, Mervin!"
The PAF also expressed condolences to the family and loved ones of Southeast Asian Games gold medalist and airman Mervin Guarte. "The Philippine Air Force condoles with A1C Guarte's family and assures full support and assistance as they cope with this untimely loss."
The Philippine Sports Commission expressed condolences, while the Pilipinas Obstacle Sports Federation condemned the incident and called for justice.
Guarte represented the Philippines in both athletics and obstacle course events, securing SEA Games silver medals in the men’s 800 and 1500-meter track events. He then pivoted towards obstacle course racing, copping gold in the 2019 Manila and 2023 Cambodia editions, securing a world record in the men’s team relay with 24.279 seconds.
The bemedaled athlete also ruled the Spartan 2024 APAC Championship men’s beast 21km category held in Fiji held last November. He’s also an Airman First Class of the Philippine Air Force assigned at the San Fernando Airbase in Lipa City in Batangas.
Source: GMA Integrated News
Be part of ImHenyo community!
Get featured by sharing your stories, news, and comments
Email us at [email protected]
NEWS















Comments