5 missing as boat capsizes

DINALUNGAN, Aurora, Philippines – Search and rescue operations are underway for five persons who have gone missing after their boat capsized off the waters of this town on Thursday afternoon.

A report sent to the Army’s 56th Infantry Battalion yesterday identified those missing as Taruk Tikiman, 47; Lody Tikiman, 82; Sibo Tikiman, 2; Raymond Gusilatar, 9; and Jaja Bekyadan, all members of the Dumagat tribe.

Rangel Tikiman reportedly drowned while Josephine Gusilatar, 27, who survived the accident, sought the help of the Dinalungan police.

The victims were on their way to Barangay San Ildefonso in Casiguran town when the accident occurred.

The ill-fated boat was recovered in the coastal area of Barangay Abuleg.