The Philippine Air Force (PAF) expressed grief over the tragic death of Southeast Asian (SEA) Games medalist and Airman First Class Mervin Guarte, pledging a full investigation into the incident.
In a report by RH Edniel Parrosa, PAF Spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo reaffirmed the PAF’s commitment to providing full support and assistance to Guarte’s grieving family. Guarte was fatally stabbed in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.
The Air Force is also actively coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to expedite the resolution of the case, as the perpetrator remains unidentified.
According to police reports, an unidentified assailant stabbed Guarte in the chest at approximately 4:30 a.m. on Tuesday while he was sleeping at a friend's house. The friend is reportedly a barangay official.
The PNP has identified individuals who were present during a drinking session attended by Guarte as persons of interest in the investigation.
Government officials and fellow athletes have expressed deep grief over the loss of the veteran Filipino champion, urging swift justice.
In 2015, Guarte became a member of the Air Force through direct enlistment. He triumphed in the SEA Games, winning two gold medals in separate years, with victories in both the track and obstacle course events.
