77-Year-Old Man Found Dead After Being Swept Away by River in Davao del Norte

By Sherman Calotes | Philippine People's Press 

Santo Tomas, Davao del Norte – A 77-year old man who was reported missing after being swept away by strong river currents was found lifeless on Monday, June 23, in Sitio Apitong, Barangay La Libertad.

The victim, identified as Encarnito Bustillo Bureros, was earlier reported missing by concerned residents after he failed to return home from his farm in Barangay Balagunan.

According to the Santo Tomas Municipal Police Station, Bureros was last seen on his way to cut wood in his farm in Sitio Sta. Lucia when heavy rains poured, causing the nearby river to swell. Authorities believe he was caught by the sudden surge of water while heading home and was swept away by the current.

A coordinated search and retrieval operation was immediately launched by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO). The victim’s body was later found along the riverbank in Barangay La Libertad, several kilometers from where he was last seen.

Police have ruled out foul play, stating that initial investigations indicate the incident was a tragic accident caused by the sudden rise of river water due to heavy rains.

Authorities remind the public, especially elderly residents, to exercise caution during inclement weather and avoid crossing rivers or low-lying areas prone to flooding.

Further investigation is ongoing to verify all circumstances surrounding the incident.

Source: Santo Tomas LGU

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