PH Navy probes death of officer candidate while on routine run
Published Jul 28, 2026 02:43 pm
At A Glance
- The Philippine Navy is investigating the death of Officer Candidate Aldwayne B. Dulnuan, who collapsed after completing a routine five-kilometer training run at the Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command in Zambales.
- The Navy said Dulnuan was initially treated for a suspected heat-related illness before he died on July 22. Medical findings later identified the cause of death as a severe infection affecting the central nervous system with a compromised respiratory system.
- The Navy said there is no indication of foul play so far. It also reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy against maltreatment and said it continues to support the officer candidate's family while the investigation is ongoing.
DULNUAN (FB)
Philippine Navy (PN) launched on Tuesday, July 28, an investigation into the death of an officer candidate who suffered a medical emergency after completing a training run at the Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command (NETDC) in San Antonio, Zambales.
The PN identified the trainee as Officer Candidate Aldwayne B. Dulnuan, a member of Naval Officer Candidate Course Class 47.
PN spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez said the Navy is still establishing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We regret to confirm that a male student undergoing officer training at the Naval Education, Training and Doctrine Command has passed away. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time,” Martinez said.
“The Philippine Navy is currently looking into the matter to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. At this time, it would be premature to comment further while the investigation is ongoing,” she added.
According to PN, Dulnuan completed a scheduled five-kilometer run at Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui on the morning of July 21. Shortly after the exercise, he experienced dizziness and severe chills before collapsing.
Navy medical personnel immediately responded and administered first aid at the station's medical dispensary.
An initial assessment pointed to possible cardiac arrhythmia, heat exhaustion, and electrolyte imbalance. He was then transferred to San Marcelino District Hospital in Zambales for further evaluation.
Doctors at the hospital recommended his admission to the intensive care unit after initially diagnosing him with heat stroke. He was later transferred to Ulticare Medical Center Inc. in Olongapo City for specialized treatment. His family was immediately informed and arrived at the hospital later that day.
Despite continuous medical treatment, Dulnuan died at 12:53 p.m. on July 22.
The Navy said the medical cause of death was determined to be “a severe infection affecting the central nervous system, with a compromised respiratory system.”
Martinez said the NETDC has begun administrative and investigative proceedings while coordinating with medical authorities to determine the complete circumstances surrounding the incident.
“The investigation is ongoing, and based on the information available at this stage, there is no indication of foul play,” she said.
The NETDC said it has remained in contact with Dulnuan's family and continues to provide assistance following his death.
It also stressed that its policies against misconduct remain in force as the investigation proceeds.
“The Command maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against maltreatment, abuse, bullying, sexual harassment, and all other forms of misconduct. Any violation of this policy will be addressed in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and institutional procedures,” Martinez noted.
She added that the NETDC “remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of its students by ensuring that established safety measures and training protocols are consistently implemented and observed.”
The NETDC is responsible for the education and professional training of future Navy and Marine Corps officers and enlisted personnel. Its officer candidate program prepares civilian graduates for commissioned service in the PN.
It has been the third case of a possible heat-related incident in the military that led to the death of its trainees.
On May 27, two Philippine Army recruits also died of severe complications due to heat stroke during training by the Army’s Training Command (TRACOM) at the School for Candidate Soldier in Camp O'Donnell, Capas, Tarlac.