PAF gold medalist Mervin Guarte stabbed to death

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) expressed condolences to the family of Mervin Guarte, a gold medalist athlete who was fatally stabbed on Tuesday morning in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.

Guarte, an Airman First Class since 2015 and Southeast Asian Games multi-medalist, joined PAF through direct enlistment and was praised for his discipline and dedication to excellence.

PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo assured Guarte's family of the organization's full support and assistance in investigating the incident.

Guarte was killed by an unidentified assailant at Sitio Pinagkaisahan, Barangay Camilmilat around 4:30 a.m. Tuesday, despite being able to call for help after the stabbing.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano called on law enforcement agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations into Guarte's death and bring the perpetrator to justice.

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) president Abraham 'Bambol' Tolentino expressed sadness over the loss of the obstacle sports racing champion and urged for a speedy investigation.