Authorities in Malungon, Sarangani Province confirm the death of a young man who drowned after being swept away by powerful floodwaters Sunday night.
The victim, identified only by his surname Calapong, aged between 20 to 28, was found lifeless at Sitio Malinis, Barangay Tamban after hours of search operations.
Police investigators report that his body bore multiple bruises and scratches, while residents mourn the tragic incident that shocked nearby barangays.
Earlier reports revealed that at around six o’clock in the evening, Calapong attempted to cross a flooded river in Sitio Kisawil, Barangay Demolok.
Heavy rainfall caused the river’s current to strengthen, dragging the victim for more than thirty kilometers downstream toward the Sarangani boundary.
Rescuers found him naked and unconscious the next morning and immediately rushed him to a nearby clinic for medical attention.
Despite efforts to revive him, the attending physician declared him dead on arrival at around eight in the morning.
Police investigators continue to examine all possible angles surrounding the victim’s death to determine whether foul play was involved or purely accidental.
Local authorities also warn residents against crossing swollen rivers and flood-prone areas during continuous rainfall to prevent similar tragedies.
Meanwhile, disaster response teams are preparing intensified community awareness programs to improve safety and readiness during the ongoing typhoon season across southern Mindanao.
