Authorities Urge Caution During Thunderstorms
IMELDA, ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY — Two farmers lost their lives after being struck by lightning during a sudden afternoon downpour on Saturday, October 25, 2025, in this quiet farming town.
The victims were identified as Dodong Habuan, a resident of Purok 1, Barangay Ganyangan, and Tata Mareng of Barangay Lumpanak.
Initial police reports revealed that Habuan was harvesting crops when heavy rain suddenly poured. Seeking shelter, he took cover under a tractor — an act that proved fatal when lightning struck, killing him instantly.
Meanwhile, Mareng, who had just finished “treasering” in the fields, was reportedly on his way home when the rain intensified. He sought refuge in a nearby house, but was also fatally struck by lightning moments later.
Both victims’ bodies were brought to Gamalinda Funeral Homes in Imelda town for proper handling and coordination with their respective families.
The local government and authorities expressed condolences to the victims’ families and reminded the public to exercise extreme caution during bad weather, especially when thunder and lightning occur.
⚠️ Safety Reminder:
When thunderstorms strike, avoid open fields, metal structures, and vehicles like tractors or motorcycles. Do not take shelter under trees or near electrical posts. It is safest to stay indoors or in enclosed concrete buildings until the storm has completely passed.
Tragic incidents like this serve as a somber reminder of nature’s unpredictability — and the importance of putting safety first, even amid a farmer’s hard day’s work in the field.