Basey, Samar — A tragic drowning incident occurred on the afternoon of January 4, 2025, along the Golden River in the vicinity of Barangay Guirang, Basey, Samar, resulting in the death of a 61-year-old man.
Police identified the victim, as “Teo” (alias), a married, self-employed resident of V&G Subdivision in Tacloban City, was aboard the Lagkaw River Cruise with his family when the unfortunate incident unfolded.
According to the boat captain, “Christmel,” the incident occurred around 3:50 PM while the vessel was returning to the wharf after completing its river cruise.
As the boat neared the shore, the victim’s 4-year-old granddaughter slipped from the riverboat and fell into the fast-moving waters of the river. Without hesitation, the victim plunged into the river in a desperate attempt to rescue the child.
However, despite his efforts, he was unable to reach her. Fortunately, other family members aboard the boat were able to save the 4-year-old girl.
Tragically, the victim was swept away by the strong river current, leading to his drowning.
The Basey Municipal Police Station (MPS) was alerted to the incident at approximately 10:30 PM that same evening by the boat captain. Authorities immediately coordinated with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the Coast Guard Substation in Basey for a search and retrieval operation.
As of the latest report, the operation is ongoing, as efforts continue to locate the victim’s body.
Local authorities have not released further details regarding the specific cause of the victim’s inability to survive the current, but the incident underscores the inherent risks of water-based activities, particularly in strong river currents.
The Samar Chronicle tried to contact the LGU, particularly the Basey Tourism Office, for comment on why they permitted the boats to operate amidst the strong current, but to no avail.
The Basey MPS has vowed to continue its investigation into the incident, while the community mourns the loss of a local resident who gave his life in an attempt to save his loved one.
The police are also womdering why the operator of the boat on reported the incident on 10pm when the incident occurred around 3pm.
The authorities have also reiterated the importance of safety precautions for tourists engaging in water-based activities and emphasized that all operators should ensure that proper safety protocols, such as life jackets and trained crew members, are in place to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The family of the victim is currently being assisted by local authorities. (rjb)
