BORONGAN CITY, Eastern Samar – On April 8, 2024, Technical Sergeant Samuel M. Garbo, a former First Sergeant of Delta Company of the 78th Infantry (Warrior) Battalion, tragically lost his life while heroically saving drowning children in Barangay Locsoon, Borongan City, Eastern Samar.
TSgt Garbo, along with his friends, was on a rest and recreation at Rosamar Resort, Borongan City, when the incident occurred.
Two children, in their early teens, were saved from drowning by TSgt Garbo, but tragically, he lost his life in the process.
Unmindful of the danger he faced and with courage characteristic of a true warrior soldier, TSgt Garbo did not hesitate to risk his own life to save the drowning children.
Witnesses reported that while TSgt Garbo was enjoying the ocean waters, he noticed two young children being swept away by large waves.
Without hesitation, TSgt Garbo immediately swam to the children and guided them to safety near the shore.
Despite successfully bringing them to safety, TSgt Garbo was exhausted from swimming against the strong currents and was unable to reach the safe area of the beach. He was found unconscious and was later pronounced dead upon arrival at the provincial hospital of Eastern Samar.
Upon learning of the tragedy, the two children, Kate Bernadette Batula, 13, and Keisha Marie Batula, 9, expressed their heartfelt gratitude for TSgt Garbo’s heroism, which saved their lives. They referred to him as a “forever hero” and a proud member of the Philippine Army.
Lieutenant Colonel Joseph D Bugaoan, acting Commanding Officer of the 78th IB, assured TSgt Garbo’s bereaved family that they would receive the necessary financial assistance, claims, and support for his burial.
“TSgt Garbo’s sacrifices and heroism will always be remembered. Let his bravery in saving lives and risking his own life be an inspiring example to our soldiers, who will continue his legacy as true warriors,” LtCol. Bugaoan stated. (Reports and photo from 78IB)
