A 48-year-old farmer was found dead near the shoreline of Punta Cruz, Barangay Poblacion, Toboso, after he drowned behind the Toboso Public Market on Monday, July 7.
The victim was identified as Emanito Carmelotis, a resident of Barangay General Luna, Toboso, Negros Occidental, the police said.
There were no signs of foul play, Lt. Antonietta Loraez, Toboso Deputy Police Chief, said.
Initial findings suggest the victim may have accidentally fallen into the sea.
Carmelotis’ body was discovered floating near the shore on Monday afternoon, with visible scratches likely caused by the rocky seabed, the police said.
Family members told investigators that Carmelotis would often consume alcohol while doing errands at the wet market, which may have contributed to the incident.
The police added that the area where he was found is deep and rocky, possibly explaining the marks on his body.
A post-mortem examination confirmed that the cause of death was drowning.*