Davao de Oro councilor, mayor's husband die during trail run

Two runners died during a trail run event in Davao del Norte.

Klent John Brua, husband of New Bataan mayor Bianca Cualing-Brua, and Montevista councilor Eric Joseph Taping collapsed during the Bukindaw X Santo Tomas Mountain Trail Ultra 2025 last Sunday, Aug. 4.

On its Facebook page, the organizers mourned the passing of the participants, saying they are saddened by the news.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, loved ones, and colleagues during this difficult time. May they rest in peace," they wrote.

According to reports, the organizers launched a rescue operation after Brua and Taping failed to reach the finish line.

Brua was found unconscious and was later declared dead on arrival at the Santo Tomas Municipal Health Center, while 33-year-old Taping reportedly experienced symptoms of vomiting and physical distress. He was taken to a hospital but later died.

Both deaths are suspected to have been caused by heat stroke as high temperatures were recorded during that day.

Police in Davao del Norte are also investigating whether the trail run organizers followed safety protocols.

"Siguro kung titingnan natin yung preparasyon, yung standard na requirement sa mga security sa mga station, dapat every 7 kilometer dapat ay may mga station, security na nakabantay. Nakita natin na medyo hindi na patch up,” Police Major Eduardo Corpuz, Sto. Tomas PNP commander, said.

The Provincial Government of Davao de Oro shared a post expressing its profound sorrow over the passing of Taping.

"Your commitment to the aspirations of kaLAMBOan and genuine public service will always be remembered and honored," they wrote.

Taping's sister, Coy Coy, also wrote, "Trail running has been a part of us since 2012 a path we ran together, side by side. But on August 4, 2025, the trail took my brother to a place I cannot yet follow. He didn’t just run the trails; he lived them, breathed them, and inspired others on every step. Though he’s no longer beside me, I carry his strength in every stride. This run is now for you, my brother your spirit will forever blaze the path ahead."

Tributes and condolences also poured in on Brua's most recent Facebook Reel.