Philippines sports mourns death of SEAG gold medalist

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine sports was in a state of shock after Southeast Asian Games double gold medalist Mervin Guarte of obstacle racing and athletics suffered a tragic death yesterday in his hometown in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro.

“We are still in shock, very sad,” said Philippine Obstacle Sports Federation president Atty. Alberto Agra.

According to police reports, a still unidentified assailant stabbed Guarte in the chest as the latter slept at around 4:30 a.m. inside the residence of his friend, Barangay Camilmil Councilor Dante Abel.

It was a gruesome death to an athlete who brought honor to the country with SEA Games gold medals in obstacle racing in 2019 and in athletics in 2023.

“RIP boss Meg. Nakakabigla, malungkot kami mga national athletes na kasamahan mo sa nangyari,” said two-time Olympic medalist Nesthy Petecio.

“Rest in peace, Meg,” said Eumir Marcial, another Olympic medal winner.

“Mourning for one of the medalist athletes from PATAFA (athletics) to obstacle for his untimely demise,” POC president Abraham Tolentino said.

“May his soul rest in peace. What a tragedy,” said world No. 4 pole vaulter EJ Obiena.