A 38-year-old fisherman died after being struck by lightning while at sea in Sitio Malingin, Barangay Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, on Tuesday afternoon, August 5.
The victim, identified only by his alias “Opao,” was a local resident. His lifeless body was found aboard his fishing boat.
According to his wife, Teresita, Opao left home shortly after 2 p.m. to go fishing with four others. However, when heavy rain and lightning followed, the others sought shelter while he remained behind.
He was later discovered unresponsive, presumed to have been hit by lightning during the thunderstorm.
The victim leaves behind his wife and eight children.
The local government of Lapu-Lapu City said it would shoulder the funeral expenses and extend further assistance to the bereaved family.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) had issued a thunderstorm advisory on the same day, listing Lapu-Lapu City as one of the affected areas.
Authorities continue to remind the public to heed weather advisories and take safety precautions during severe conditions.
