A celebrated Philippine athlete and Air Force serviceman was brutally stabbed to death while sleeping, triggering nationwide calls for justice and an outpouring of grief from government officials, military personnel, and the sports community.

Mindoro-born Mervin Guarte, 33, a two-time Southeast Asian (SEA) Games gold medallist and recent Spartan Asia Pacific Champion, was attacked in his sleep by an unidentified assailant who entered a residence in Barangay Camilmil, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, at approximately 4:30 am on Tuesday, January 7, 2025.

According to the Philippine National Police MIMAROPA Regional Office, the attacker stabbed Guarte in the chest with a bladed weapon before fleeing in an unknown direction. The athlete was sleeping in the living room of a village councillor’s house at the time of the incident.

Oriental Mindoro First District Congressman Arnan C. Panaligan, who had previously honored Guarte during his tenure as Calapan City Mayor, called for swift police action.

“When I was City Mayor of Calapan, we recognized Mervin for bringing honor to our city and the entire Philippines,” Panaligan said. “I urge the police to ensure the perpetrator is caught and appropriate charges are filed in court.”

The killing has prompted immediate condemnation from local officials.

Oriental Mindoro Governor Humerlito “Bonz” Dolor announced the provincial government is working closely with law enforcement to track down those responsible.

“Our call for justice will not waver,” Governor Dolor stated. “We continue to seek accountability for this crime.”

In an emotional tribute, Governor Dolor added: “Thank you for your honor and love for the nation. We salute you.”

Guarte’s athletic career spanned over a decade of achievements.

He first represented the Philippines at the 2011 Jakarta SEA Games, securing silver medals in both the 800m and 1500m events.

After transitioning to obstacle course racing in 2019, he claimed his first SEA Games gold medal in Manila, winning the men’s 5km race.

His final international victory came at the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia, where he anchored the gold-medal-winning men’s relay team.

Most recently, Guarte had achieved another milestone by becoming the 2024 Spartan Asia Pacific Champion in the Men’s Beast 21km category.

At the time of his death, Guarte was serving as an Airman First Class in the Philippine Air Force, balancing his military duties with his athletic career.

His dual role as both serviceman and athlete had earned him respect across multiple sectors of Philippine society.

Calapan City Mayor Malou Flores-Morillo joined in condemning what she termed the “merciless killing” of the hometown hero.

The Philippine Sports Commission has extended its condolences to Guarte’s family, while local authorities have launched an extensive manhunt for the suspect.

The provincial government has pledged to maintain close coordination with the Philippine National Police until the perpetrator is brought to justice.

The Pilipinas Obstacle Sports Federation, where Guarte was an active member, has joined the chorus of voices demanding swift justice for their fallen athlete.

As investigations continue, the Oriental Mindoro provincial government has called for any witnesses to come forward with information that might help solve the case.