Lilo-an: Boy, 12, dies after being swept away in ‘inlet canal’
Victim did not heed subdivision’s caretaker’s warning not to swim in the canal because of strong current
CEBU CITY, Philippines — A 12-year-old boy died after he was swept away by a strong current while swimming in a canal behind a subdivision in Barangay Yati, Liloan, Cebu on Tuesday afternoon, April 21.
The incident was reported to authorities at around 2:30 p.m., hours after the victim had entered the water.
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Swept by strong current
Police identified the victim as a resident of Barangay Tayud in the same town.
Initial investigation by Liloan Police Station showed that he was not originally with the group of children who first went swimming in the “inlet canal” at the back of subdivision there earlier in the day.
Authorities said three of his friends, all minors, had already finished swimming in the canal and were on their way home when they encountered the victim at around 11 a.m.
The victim then asked them to accompany him back to the canal so he could swim.
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Warning ignored
While on their way back to the canal, a caretaker warned the children not to proceed, noting that the water current had become strong. Despite the warning, they continued to the canal.
Upon arrival, the victim immediately jumped into the water, but he was quickly carried away by the current.
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Rescue attempt fails
His companions attempted to rescue him but were unable to do so due to the strong current. Residents in the area later sought assistance from authorities.
Responding rescuers attempted to revive the boy, but he was later declared dead.
Investigation ongoing
Police said the victim’s remains had been brought to a funeral home for proper disposition.
As of Wednesday, April 22, authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident.
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