16-year-old drowns in raging river in Itogon, Benguet

Itogon, Benguet - A 16-year-old girl was swept away in rapid river waters at the Agno river in Sitio Salapsap, Dalupirip, Itogon while her companion, a 15-year-old, was found stranded on a rock on Sunday, October 23, 2022.

Collen Chance P. Flores,16, a student at the University of Cordilleras is still being searched while Cherry Leigh Dumalog Pangang-at is now safe after she was able to hold onto a rock.

According to Itogon Police, the two asked permission from their parents to go swimming, but while swimming, they came across an unfortunate incident.

The incident happened around 2 PM on Sunday, according to authorities.

With the said unfortunate event, Barangay Captain Paul Camantiles said a search and rescue operation was launched and ended at 7 PM last night.

It was resumed at 7 AM on Monday with the help of the personnel of Itogon MPS, Itogon BFP, Itogon MHSO, Dalupirip BHERT, and other community volunteers.

In a statement, Camantiles said the barangay local government unit has been warning the public that the river is unsafe for swimming but admitted they could not control visitors as the river has numerous entryways.

“Im not proud to say, pakdaar laeng, ado ti maal-ala na diyay nga karayan, lalo ti bisbisita,” the barangay captain further cautioned.

In 2019, the river claimed the lives of 3 high school female students while swimming.

OTHER NEWS

President Marcos Jr. appoints Apayao Gov. Bulut Jr. as RDC Chairperson

Follow Guru Press Cordillera  on Facebook for more News and Informatio