Mervin Guarte (August 3, 1992 – January 6, 2025) passed away on Monday evening after being stabbed at his home in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro.
He was 32 years old.
A long-time member of Team Pilipinas, Guarte dedicated more than a decade to representing the national team.
He was a standout in athletics, earning three silver medals in the Southeast Asian Games in the 800 meters from 2011 to 2015.
The Air Force reserve also claimed silver in the 1500 meters in both 2011 and 2015, before finishing with a bronze in 2017.
In 2019, Guarte transitioned to obstacle racing, winning gold in Manila in the men’s 5km event, and was also part of the gold-medal-winning team in the men’s team relay at the 2023 competition.
Tributes poured in for Guarte from his fellow national team members on Tuesday.
“I just learned the devastating news of the shocking death of my friend and National Teammate Kuya Mervin Guarte. May his soul rest in peace, and I am sending my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. What a tragedy. Only 33 years old. This is another poignant reminder to us all, that we must embrace every day as a gift; as tomorrow is never guaranteed. Blessed to have shared the track with you. Rest well my friend,” said EJ Obiena.
“Lahat kame mga kapwa mo sundalo at atleta malungkot sa pagkawala mo Meg. Rest in Peace Bro. Isasama ka namin sa mga laban Meg. Maraming salamat sa pag represent sa bansa natin. #justice,” added Eumir Marcial.
