20-year-old athlete dies after boxing match in Camiguin
A 20-year-old student-athlete passed away after participating in a boxing match over the weekend.
Occidental Mindoro State College said in a statement that they are mourning the death of their student, Marc Mateo Castillo, who was their representative for the Southern Tagalog Region in the 2025 State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association National Games held in Mambajao, Camiguin.
They said that Castillo passed away following his boxing match against the National Capital Region, which concluded via Referee Stopped Contest in the third round on April 26.
While OMSC did not specify the cause of his death, the administration assured that they are "actively coordinating" with relevant agencies and organizations, including the SCUAA and its overseeing committees, for a "thorough review" of the incident.
"OMSC takes pride in the courage, dedication, and achievements of its student-athletes and remains firmly committed to ensure their safety, well-being, and full support at all time[s]," they stressed.
"The OMSC community conveys its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Castillo. The entire OMSC community shares in this period of mourning and stands in solidarity with those affected by this tragic loss," they ended.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges, which administers the SCUAA, lamented the "unfortunate and fatal accident" that happened despite their "meticulous preparation to ensure the utmost safety and welfare" of all the student-athletes during the event.
According to them, the SCUAA tapped the Municipal Health Office of Mambajao to serve as medical teams in different sporting events as a precautionary measure, noting that they had a "ring doctor" nearby for the boxing matches.
A medical team was also present to make sure that the athletes were medically fit prior to the event.
"The SCUAA Officials and the medical team professionally and thoughtfully managed Marc’s case until he was brought to Camiguin General Hospital and transferred to a hospital in Cagayan de Oro City for further evaluation and treatment," PASUC said.
They detailed that Castillo's match was overseen by "licensed and duly accredited technical officials" and that both Castillo and his opponent were "equipped with standard protective gear in accordance with established safety regulations."
"Despite these precautions, an unforeseen and tragic incident occurred wherein Marc sustained a solid blow to the nose during the match. The medical team lost no time in giving Marc timely basic health interventions before he is transported by an ambulance to Camiguin General Hospital for hospital-based capability management," PASUC explained.
"The SCUAA officials promptly communicated to Marc’s parents the situation and immediately facilitated arrangements for their travel to Cagayan de Oro City. The Occidental Mindoro State College is constantly coordinating with and providing support to the family during this difficult time," they continued.
PASUC underscored how Castillo was "an outstanding athlete" and an "inspiring member of our academic and athletic community known for his passion, dedication, and vibrant spirit."
"He exemplified the true values of sportsmanship, resilience, and camaraderie, and his loss leaves a void that words cannot fill. It is deeply felt by the entire SUCs community," they said.
"May Marc’s memory be a blessing and his spirit continue to live on in the hearts of all he touched. We will honor his memory as part of the legacy of this event. May he rest in eternal peace," they ended.
One of Marc's students at the gym remembers him for his "warm smile" and his kindness and patience.
"I still can’t believe you’re no longer with us, Coach Mark. I’m at a loss for words," a Facebook user said. "What stays with me the most is your warm smile, always there to greet us at the front desk each morning as we arrived at the gym. You were always so kind and patient with us. I’ll never forget how you used to compliment my posture and form—it meant so much to me. Thank you for everything, coach! You left us too soon, but you will always have a place in my heart."
Ross Mateo, a relative, struggles to accept what happened. "Napakahirap tanggapin ung nangyari sayo ... Pero siguro ganun talaga ung Buhay," she said. "Tulungan mo kaming lahat na matanggap ung pagkawala mo .... Mahal na mahal ka Naming lahat."
College officials from OMSC have now personally reached out to Castillo's family to give full assistance in the necessary arrangements for his return home.
