AN Army field-grade officer died on Sunday after collapsing during a 21-kilometer run.
Maj. Arnold Lubang, 40, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 2000, died of suspected heart attack during the Condura Skyway Marathon 2016 in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, portion of Skyway.
Lubang, who registered for the 21-kilometer run, suffered cardiac arrest 1-kilometer away from the finish line.
The Army spokesman, Col. Benjamin Hao, said Lubang was rushed to the Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Muntinlupa City where he was declared dead on arrival.
Hao said Lubang, who was assigned with the Army’s assistant chief of staff for plans and programs (G5), was athletic and a very enthusiastic runner.
Hao said the Army sent 100 personnel to participate in the marathon.
One of Lubang’s classmates, Maj. Joey Capirig, said they were surprised by the death of Lubang.
“He actively participates in various running events. We were shocked upon receiving the report on the death of our mistah,” Capirig said.
Capirig also described Lubang as an achiever, a fighter and among the best officers of the Army.Lubang was selected as “Best Junior Officer of the Year” during his stint as company commander with the Army’s Fourth Infantry “Diamond” Division in Cagayan de Oro City.
He was also awarded the Gold Cross Medal in 2003, the third-highest award for valor in combat.