3 Batangas teachers drown in river mishap

BATANGAS, Philippines  – Three elementary teachers drowned while two others were reported missing after they were swept away by strong river current in Lobo town Wednesday night, police said.

Police identified the victims as Emiliana Lontoc, Nelia Guico and Menchie Gayeta, teachers of the Barangay Apar Elementary School. Still missing as of press time were another teacher, Jona Driz, and jeepney driver Efren Lontoc.

Another teacher, Jertrudes Indencio, survived the incident.

Police said the teachers were on their way home from the wake of a barangay chairman aboard an owner-type jeep and were crossing the river in Barangay Jaybanga when their vehicle ditched in the middle of the river past 7 p.m. Wednesday.

A few seconds later, a strong water current hammered the jeep, forcing everyone to dive into the water.

Policemen and barangay officials were still searching for those missing as of press time. – With Ed Amoroso, Alexis Romero