March 29, 2024

Bicol Express News

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2 men drowned off Rapu-Rapu, Albay

Contributed photo

Two men drowned in the sea off Barangay Malobago, Rapu-Rapu, Albay at past 1 pm of Sunday, January 23.

The victims were Jose Ruel Peñaranda, 23, Safety Engineer, of P3 Brgy. San Roque, Sto. Domingo, Albay and John Drill Galutan, 32, Safety Supervisor from Brgy. Malobago.

Reports said the two were company employees who were involved in the rehabilitation of a mine.

Police Lieutenant Ma. Dianne Almonte, chief of the Rapu-Rapu Municipal Police Station, said the victims and other co-workers were in the village of Malobago on Sunday morning, being a rest day.

But, at about one o’clock in the afternoon, the group noticed that safety engineer Jose Ruel was missing after taking a dip in the sea.

Safety inspector John Drill allegedly tried to rescue him, but failed due to strong waves and current that caused the two to drown.

The victims had been drinking liquor that morning, possibly drunk when tragedy hit them.

The bodies were recovered after an hour, the police reported.