POC chief Tolentino on Mervin Guarte’s death: ‘Big loss to Philippine sports’

MANILA, Philippines – Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino joined the sports community in mourning the loss of two-time Southeast Asian (SEA) Games medalist Mervin Guarte, who was stabbed to death in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.

In a press statement, Tolentino also joined calls for the speedy resolution of the case.

“He’s a big loss to Philippine sports, for obstacle sports racing and athletics in particular,” Tolentino said, adding that he will reach out to Calapan City Mayor Malou Flores-Morillo and Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito Dolor regarding the resolution.

“I am hoping that the crime would be solved soon,” he added.

Guarte, who secured his SEA Games golds in obstacle racing in the 2019 and 2023 editions, was stabbed in his sleep while at the house of a Calapan barangay councilor, then later died after being at a medical facility.

The Philippine Air Force, which Guarte served as an Airman First Class (A1C), assured the Guarte family of its “full support and assistance” and said it will cooperate with authorities on the probe. the Philippine Air Force (PAF) is giving its full support for the police manhunt of the assailant, yet unidentified as of posting, and the bereaved family of the multisport standout.

“The Philippine Air Force condoles with A1C Guarte’s family and assures full support and assistance as they cope with this untimely loss,” the Air Force said in a statement. “Further, the PAF is fully cooperating with the Calapan City Police in their ongoing investigation into this unfortunate incident.”

Guarte won silver medals in the SEA Games’ 800-meter and 1500m track events before being a champion obstacle racer, and was well on track to defend his SEA Games golds this December in Thailand before his tragic demise. – Rappler.com