MATI CITY, Davao Oriental — Two men died in separate drowning incidents in the province of Davao Oriental, including an 18-year-old spearfisher whose body was recovered two days after he went missing underwater off the coast of Manay.
The first incident involved 18-year-old Kenth L. Manaytay, who was reported missing while spearfishing in the coastal waters of Barangay San Ignacio, Manay, at around 10 p.m. on October 8, 2026.
According to reports from the Philippine Coast Guard, Manaytay disappeared from sight after diving underwater to catch fish and failed to resurface. A search was subsequently conducted to locate him.
His body was recovered by fellow spearfishers at approximately 9:50 a.m. on October 10, at an estimated depth of 15 to 17 fathoms underwater.
The recovery ended the search for the missing teenager, whose disappearance had raised concerns among fellow fishers and members of the local community.
In a separate incident on the morning of October 8, another man, reportedly from Maco, Davao de Oro, drowned at a beach resort in Purok 3, Barangay Lanca, Mati City.
A video shared on Facebook by Barangay Lanca Captain Daboy Bentayao showed several people attempting to rescue the victim. Initial accounts indicated that the man had reportedly consumed alcohol before the drowning incident.
However, further details regarding the circumstances of the second incident, including the victim’s identity and the outcome of any official investigation, were not provided in the available reports.
The two incidents highlight the dangers associated with water-related activities, particularly underwater fishing and swimming in resort areas. They also underscore the importance of observing water safety precautions, assessing sea and swimming conditions, and avoiding swimming or other water activities after consuming alcohol.
Authorities and the public are reminded to exercise caution around bodies of water to help prevent similar tragedies.