2 Tarlac trainees die of heat stroke – PH Army
Published May 30, 2026 03:13 pm
At A Glance
- The Arm'ys Training Command (Tracom) identified the deceased recruits as Candidate Soldiers (CS) Johndyl L. Lemosniro, 19, of New Corella, Davao del Norte; and Junel L. Flores, 24, of Lamitan City, Basilan.
(File photo: Training Command, Philippine Army)
Two candidate soldiers undergoing training in Capas, Tarlac died after suffering heat stroke linked to extreme physical exertion and high temperatures, the Philippine Army (PA) said on Saturday, May 30.
The Arm’ys Training Command (Tracom) identified the deceased recruits as Candidate Soldiers (CS) Johndyl L. Lemosniro, 19, of New Corella, Davao del Norte; and Junel L. Flores, 24, of Lamitan City, Basilan.
Both were undergoing rigorous instruction at the School for Candidate Soldier, Initial Military Training Group at Camp O'Donnell when they collapsed on May 26.
According to the official medical certificates issued by the attending physician, both candidate soldiers suffered “severe health complications brought on by extreme physical exertion in high temperatures.”
Medical reports revealed that the primary cause of death was exertional heat related injury or heat stroke, a severe medical emergency where the body dangerously overheats due to exposure to very high temperatures along with intense physical activity under these conditions.
The heat stroke led to severe secondary complications for both trainees as medical records showed the condition manifested with “changes in mental state or behavior, agitations, restlessness, delirium, seizures, and coma as well as an imbalance of electrolytes in the body (multiple electrolyte imbalance).”
In its final diagnosis, doctors confirmed that both trainees ultimately succumbed to brain complications and swelling (encephalopathy) as a direct result of the severe heat stroke.
Meanwhile, the military clarified that emergency procedures were initiated on the ground as soon as the recruits collapsed.
Upon showing symptoms, Tracom said both recruits were rushed to Camp O'Donnell Medical Treatment Facility (CODMTF) where medical staff immediately performed endotracheal intubation to secure their airways and assist their breathing since they were unconscious and in critical condition.
To ensure they received the highest level of specialized care, the camp hospital promptly transferred the two recruits to the Tarlac Provincial Hospital for advanced laboratory testing and intensive treatment.
“Regrettably, despite the exhaustive life-saving efforts of the medical teams at both facilities, both trainees passed away,” Tracom said.
In response to the tragedy, the Tracom reiterated its steadfast commitment to the welfare, health, and safety of all trainees undergoing military instruction.
“We assure the public and the families of our recruits that stringent safety policies, medical protocols, and precautionary procedures remain enforced,” the command stated.
The Army extended its deepest condolences and sympathies to the bereaved families, relatives, and loved ones of Lemosniro and Flores.
“We respectfully ask the public to join the Philippine Army in offering solemn prayers for the eternal repose of CS Lemosniro and CS Flores, and for comfort and strength for their grieving families during this time of immense loss,” Tracom concluded.
Earlier, the Army said it has suspended two training personnel directly supervising the trainees.