Two men, including a municipal councilor, who participated in the mountain trail run in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, have died.

The organizer of the Bukindaw X Sto. Tomas Mountain Trail Ultra 2025 confirmed the passing of the two runners through its social media account.

Based on investigation, authorities launched a search and rescue operation after one of the two runners, a 39-year-old man who participated in the 21K category, failed to return from the trail in Barangay San Jose.

“Nakabalik na sa baba ang mga partisipante then the team found out na kulang sila og isa. So, it was reported po sa kadtong naka-lay down nga support units…,” Davao del Norte Police Provincial Office Spokesperson, Major Anjanette Tirador, said.

The runner was found unconscious at the foot of a ravine later in the afternoon. He was declared dead on arrival at the health center.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of death.

Earlier that day, another runner, Eric Joseph Taping, a municipal councilor of Montevista, Davao de Oro was also brought to the hospital after he felt dizzy and vomited during the run.

“Pagkahibalo sa organizer nga nalipong siya ug nagsuka, mao tong gidala dayon siya sa MDRRMO sa Health Center. Pagdala, miingon ang doctor nga ibalhin nato ni sa Davao Regional Medical Center kay didto daghan og facilities,” Sto. Tomas Municipal Police Station Chief, Major Eduardo Corpuz, said.

Medical findings showed that Taping may have suffered from heat stroke due to dehydration.

“Ang iyahang findings nga gihatag sa doctor, nag-heat stroke siya kay dehydrated siya,” Corpuz added.

Taping passed away morning on Monday, August 4, 2025.

The local government of Montevista has expressed its condolences and declared a period of mourning through an executive order issued by the mayor.

Investigation into the incident continues.