Ateneo women’s football recruit Yana Bautista has passed away Wednesday due to COVID-19, her sister Martie, a national team member, confirmed Thursday evening.
She was 17.
In a Facebook post, Martie said Yana was diagnosed with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) even before contracting the coronavirus.
ADEM, an inflammatory demyelinating disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, “further complicated” the condition of the late promising booter from Miriam College.
“Many challenges continued to surface where much of them left us extremely exhausted-- especially for my little sister,” Martie wrote.
“It is to our despondency to announce that my sister is now finally at peace and with God.”
Multiple reports disclosed that Yana took a swab test that turned out positive last Saturday before being taken under intensive care unit the following days.
Her sister Martie, also a former Ateneo courtside reporter, revealed that Yana had plenty of things planned out for this year including her UAAP debut, freshman life as Atenean, family trips, and learning how to drive on her birth month September.
“Many of you have had a personal and deep connection with my sister. She was a captain, teammate, friend, sister, and daughter. She was always lively, stylish, and comical,” Martie said.
“We hope you understand that we would need time and space to face this situation. We appreciate all the prayers you are sending out to our family and we are here for you as we mourn together.”
The PFF also mourned the loss of Yana, who suited up as a defender for Miriam College before committing to Ateneo and played for Nomads-Ateneo in the 2019 PFF Women’s League.
“The PFF, its officials and staff, join the Philippine football community in mourning the loss of Alyana Bautista,” the PFF said.
“The PFF extends its condolences to the family and friends of Ms. Alyana Bautista and requests the football community to pray for the eternal repose of her soul.”
Yana’s wake will be held from July 25 and July 26. (With reports from Jonas Terrado)