A police officer died while attempting to save two colleagues who were nearly swept away by a strong current during a seaborne patrol in Cadiz City, Negros Occidental.
The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region identified the officer as Police Master Sergeant Fernando Marfa of the Cadiz Component City Police Station.
The incident occurred at about 10:30 a.m. Aug. 7 in a river area in Sitio Bisang, Barangay Luna, Cadiz City.
According to the initial investigation, Marfa was crossing the river with personnel from the Bantay Dagat when a strong current reportedly swept away two of his companions.
Marfa immediately went to their aid in an attempt to rescue them. However, he was also swept away by the strong current and eventually submerged.
Personnel from the Cadiz City Police Station, assisted by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, immediately conducted a search and rescue operation.
Marfa’s body was later recovered and brought to Cadiz District Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival.
According to his medical certificate, the cause of death was asphyxia by drowning.
Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region Director PBGen. Romano Cardiño honored Marfa’s sacrifice, describing his actions as an act of courage and dedication to duty while attempting to save the lives of others.
The police regional office mourned Marfa’s death following the incident and recognized his effort to rescue his colleagues despite the strong current.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain based on the initial investigation released by authorities.
