JOSE DALMAN, Zamboanga del Norte — Three siblings reportedly drowned in a river in Barangay Dinasan, Jose Dalman, Zamboanga del Norte, in a tragic incident that left their family and community devastated.
The three children, identified by their surname Jamora, were reportedly residents of Barangay Balunocan in Siayan, Zamboanga del Norte.
Based on initial information gathered from residents, the children were with their mother while she was gathering firewood in the area. At some point, the mother reportedly instructed the children to go home ahead of her.
When the mother later arrived home, however, she discovered that the children were not there.
Concerned over their absence, the family and residents immediately began searching for the three children.
The search eventually led to the river, where one of the children was reportedly found floating in the water. The two other children were located underwater and had to be retrieved.
The incident has left the parents and relatives in deep grief following the loss of all three children.
Local authorities have reportedly been informed of the tragedy and are continuing to gather information surrounding the incident. The circumstances that led to the children entering the river, as well as the exact sequence of events, remain subject to further verification.
Residents also expressed sympathy for the bereaved family and appealed to those who wish to provide assistance to coordinate directly with the office of Mayor Ali or the barangay officials.
The tragedy has also prompted renewed concern over the safety of children around rivers and other bodies of water, particularly in communities where families regularly enter river areas while performing daily livelihood and household activities.
Authorities are expected to continue documenting the incident and coordinating with the family and local officials regarding the appropriate procedures following the children’s deaths.
The Mindanao Sentinel extends its condolences to the family, relatives and community of the three children during this difficult time.