MALUNGON, SARANGANI PROVINCE — The lifeless body of a young man believed to have been swept away by floodwaters was found by residents in Sitio Malinis, Barangay Tamban, Malungon, Sarangani Province.
The victim was identified as John Ray Calapo, 20, a resident of Barangay Demoloc, Malita, Davao Occidental.
Initial investigation revealed that Calapo was reportedly under the influence of alcohol when he attempted to cross a flooded area. He was carried away by the strong current from Barangay Tamban in Malita, Davao Occidental, and was found about 30 kilometers downstream in Malungon, Sarangani.
Residents who discovered the body said the victim sustained multiple injuries, believed to have been caused by rocks and debris while being carried by the flood.
According to Noel Dabuan, a resident of Barangay Tamban, the victim’s relatives confirmed that Calapo had been drinking prior to the incident.
Local residents tried to rush the victim to a nearby medical facility, but he was declared dead on arrival by attending physicians.
Authorities remind the public to avoid crossing rivers or streams during heavy rains, especially under the influence of alcohol, as flooding incidents remain a serious threat amid ongoing weather disturbances.