A 59-year-old fisherman went missing after lightning hit a fish cage area off the waters of Brgy. Central Tabao, Valladolid, Negros Occidental, on Wednesday night, June 17.
Police identified the victim as a widower and resident of Purok Bansa, Brgy. Central Tabao.
The victim and a fellow fisherman went to their fish cage, locally known as a “tangaban,” at about 7 p.m., Valladolid police investigation showed.
The victim’s companion said a lightning strike suddenly occurred while they were at the fish cage.
The companion sought cover for safety but later noticed that the victim was no longer in the area.
He attempted to locate the victim but was unsuccessful due to strong water currents.
The fisherman returned to shore and sought assistance from authorities.
A search and rescue operation was immediately launched by personnel of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Bantay Dagat, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the police.
However, authorities said the victim remained missing despite extensive search efforts.
Search operations were temporarily suspended late Wednesday night due to strong currents that posed risks to rescuers. .
As of Thursday the fisherman remains missing.*
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