"WE WANT ANSWERS": FAMILY CALLS FOR THOROUGH INVESTIGATION INTO DEATH OF IFUGAO NAVY TRAINEE

The family, friends, and community of Officer Candidate Aldwayne Agnaonao Bonuan Dulnuan, an Ifugao native and licensed pilot who died during Philippine Navy training in Zambales, are calling for a full, transparent, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

Dulnuan, a native of Kiangan, Ifugao, was remembered by loved ones as a determined young man who pursued his dream of serving the country after earning his private pilot's license in 2024 and enrolling in the Philippine Navy's Naval Officer Candidate Course (NOCC). His sudden death on July 22 has prompted an outpouring of grief across Ifugao and the Cordillera region, with family members and supporters seeking answers about what transpired during his training.

Calls for justice have also gained support from residents and community members, who have urged authorities to ensure that the investigation is conducted independently and that any person found responsible, if warranted by the evidence, is held accountable. According to reports, the family has also sought an official explanation regarding the incident as they continue to mourn the loss of their loved one.

In response, the Philippine Navy has launched a formal investigation to establish the facts surrounding Dulnuan's death.

According to Philippine Navy spokesperson Capt. Marissa Martinez, Dulnuan experienced dizziness and severe chills before collapsing during training at the Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui in San Antonio, Zambales. Navy medical personnel immediately administered first aid before transferring him to San Marcelino District Hospital, where physicians made an initial working diagnosis of heat stroke.

He was later referred to Ulticare Medical Center Inc. for intensive care. Despite continuous medical treatment, Dulnuan was pronounced dead at 12:53 p.m. on July 22.

Capt. Martinez said the medical cause of death was later identified as a severe infection affecting the central nervous system, with a compromised respiratory system.

The Navy said investigators are gathering and reviewing all available evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Martinez emphasized that the inquiry will be conducted thoroughly, transparently, and impartially.

"The investigation aims to establish the facts surrounding the incident," the Philippine Navy said, adding that all available evidence is being examined as part of the ongoing inquiry.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy's Education and Training Command extended its condolences to Dulnuan's family and said it continues to provide assistance during this difficult time.

As the investigation continues, Dulnuan's family maintains its appeal for truth and accountability, hoping that the official findings will provide clear answers about the circumstances that led to the death of the young Ifugao officer candidate.