Mervin Guarte, SEA Games gold medalist, stabbed to death

Mervin Guarte wins gold in Obstacle Course Race men’s individual 5km x 20 event of 30th SEA Games at Filinvest, Alabang. INQUIRER photo / Richard A. Reyes

MANILA, Philippines–Philippine sports mourned the tragic death of bemedalled athlete Mervin Guarte on Tuesday.

Guarte was reportedly stabbed to death in his sleep at a friend’s house early Tuesday morning in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.

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“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 Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) posted on social media Tuesday.

READ: Mervin Guarte relishes success in obstacle course racing

Two-time Olympian and pole vault star EJ Obiena also paid a tribute to his “friend” Guarte, who won two gold medals in obstacle course racing at the Southeast Asian Games.

“I just learned the devastating news of the shocking death of my friend and National Teammate Kuya Mervin Guarte,” Obiena said. “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.”

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“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.”

READ: SEA Games: Mervin Guarte, Abrahan complete PH sweep of obstacle course racing

The 33-year-old Guarte also won SEA Games medals as a middle-distance runner before trying his hand and achieving more success as an obstacle course racer in 2019.

“Rest in peace kuya idol,” said Kaizen dela Serna, Guarte’s fellow SEA Games gold medalist in obstacle course racing, on an Instagram story.