MANAY, Davao Oriental — A 42-year-old Department of Education (DepEd) employee died by drowning while swimming with her husband in the coastal waters of Purok Tibaon, Barangay Holy Cross, Manay, Davao Oriental, on Monday morning, August 31, 2026.
The victim was identified as Shane Mabel Antonio Manatad, 42, an administrative officer of DepEd. She was reportedly swept toward a deeper portion of the sea by strong waves and currents at around 10:39 a.m.
Her husband, Frano Magkidong Manatad, 53, a public school teacher, also encountered difficulty in the water but survived. He was brought to the nearest medical facility for treatment after the incident.
According to the report, the couple had already noticed that the sea was experiencing strong waves before they entered the water. However, they reportedly did not anticipate that the strength of the waves and current would suddenly carry them toward deeper waters.
Frano attempted to rescue his wife after she was swept farther from the shore. However, the strong waves and current, coupled with his own physical exhaustion, prevented him from reaching and bringing her back to safety.
The victim was later found unresponsive in the water and was subsequently confirmed dead.
The incident serves as another reminder of the dangers posed by strong waves and currents, particularly in coastal areas where sea conditions can change rapidly. Authorities continue to assess the circumstances surrounding the drowning as part of their investigation.
The incident was reported in the coastal community of Purok Tibaon, Barangay Holy Cross, Manay, Davao Oriental.