World · Philippines Bureau
Coast Guard divers search for farmer swept away in Bukidnon river
A specialized Philippine Coast Guard diving team from Cagayan de Oro City joined rescue efforts Wednesday to locate a 38-year-old farmer who disappeared in the Manupai River after being caught by strong currents.
LSN Philippines ·
VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon — Philippine Coast Guard scuba divers intensified the search for Rocky Bitos, 38, who went missing Sunday in the Manupai River in Barangay Colonia. The farmer was overcome by powerful currents while in the waterway, prompting authorities to launch a retrieval operation.
Specialized diving personnel from the PCG's Cagayan de Oro station arrived Wednesday to bolster ongoing search efforts in the area. The reinforcement brought additional expertise and equipment to aid the recovery operation, which has been ongoing since the initial report of Bitos' disappearance.
The Manupai River is known for its strong currents, particularly during certain periods. Local authorities have been coordinating with the Coast Guard to systematically search the affected areas of the river as part of the retrieval mission.
The search operation continues as authorities work to locate the missing farmer and bring closure to his family.