CEBU, Philippines - A 45-year-old man drowned while crossing a river in sitio Lapyahan in barangay Labogon, Mandaue City last Monday afternoon while an 8-year-old boy who he had carried on his shoulders was rescued by two men on a banca.
Maynard Cobarde, 8, of barangay Basak, Mandaue City attracted attention by shouting for help.
Cobarde was sinking fast but due to the quickness of his rescuer, he was pulled out just in time.
He came out of the water unconscious however. When he regained consciousness, he told his rescuers that he was with someone when crossing the river.
Roger Soon, 45, of barangay Pagsabungan was already dead when found.
Homicide chief P/.Insp.Ramil Morpos said that based on the boy's statement, Soon carried him on his shoulders when they crossed the river.
The boy said Soon lost his balance due to the strong current which carried them to a deeper portion of the river.
Soon's body was turned over to his sister and was taken to the Cosmopolitan Funeral Homes. — THE FREEMAN