In this deep section of the creek in Barangay Imelda Village, Baguio City, a 14-year-old boy drowned yesterday at around 10:30 AM, October 14.
After an hour-long search and rescue operation, the boy was found in the creek, which is about 10 feet deep.
But how did the teenager drown?
According to the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO), the victim and another minor allegedly stole a bicycle from a house near the creek when a construction worker noticed them.
“This construction worker shouted at the two minors, and they panicked and jumped into the river,” said PMaj. Bernabe Chamo Jr., Station Commander, BCPO Station 3.
Witnesses immediately called for help, but the search for the victim proved to be challenging.
“It took about 45 minutes for the police to arrive. They tied a rope and dived into the creek,” said Barangay Imelda Village Kagawad Roberto Bakisan.
“The first responders were the PNP. They arrived quickly, but they lacked equipment. We know that the Bureau of Fire Protection is capable of search and rescue operations, so we sought their assistance,” Chamo added.
At around 11:40 AM, the boy was found but declared dead on arrival.
When the news team visited the scene of the incident, the old bicycle the victim allegedly stole was still there.
According to residents, this wasn’t the first time someone had fallen into this deep part of the creek.
The barangay plans to fill the area to prevent future accidents.
To be sure, the CDRRMO staff conducted a dye test to determine where the water flows and if there are other exits.
It was found that the dye circled only within the same part of the creek.
This means there is only one exit point.
Aside from this, the sidewalk next to the creek is also dangerous.
The barangay plans to put up a barrier here.
Meanwhile, Barangay Saint Joseph assured immediate assistance to the victim’s family, who is also a Person with Disability (PWD).
“We will provide the necessary documents so that they can receive financial assistance from the CSWDO,” said Grace Saraan, Secretary of the Barangay Saint Joseph.
The family refused to have the victim undergo an autopsy.
**CHARLES NIKKO LIMON
