BY JONAS TERRADO
Alyana Bautista, who was set to play for Ateneo in the UAAP women’s football, passed away at the age of 17 due to COVID-19, her sister said Thursday evening through her Facebook account.
Martie Bautista, a national team member and football commentator, said her younger sister had been diagnosed with a rare inflammatory disease known as Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) that was complicated after testing positive for COVID-19.
“These past few months have been difficult for Yana,” Martie said. “She was diagnosed with ADEM that was further complicated by COVID-19. Many challenges continued to surface where much of them left us extremely exhausted – especially for my little sister.
“It is to our despondency to announce that my sister is now finally at peace and with God,” she added.
The younger Bautista was recruited by Ateneo after a high school career at nearby Miriam College.
“Yana had a lot of things planned out for this year. She had high hopes booting up for Ateneo as she was expecting to come in as a freshman this August,” Martie said.
“Yana was also thrilled planning for our future trips abroad as a family. Overall, we knew how exhilarated she was to learn how to drive as this September would mark her 18th birthday.”
“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. 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,” added Martie.
The PFF also mourned the loss of Bautista, who suited up as a defender for Nomads FC in last year’s 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.”
