By Jennifer P. Rendon
A day of celebration turned into tragedy for a family in Batad, Iloilo after a relative drowned to his death afternoon of April 14, 2021.
The family of Pedie Labang, 57, a resident of Barangay Batad Viejo, Batad, claimed they did not notice that he went for a swim.
Lieutenant Ma. Rosela Buenvenida, Batad police chief, said Labang and more than 10 family members went to Tabunan Beach at Barangay Binon-an to celebrate his younger brother’s birthday.
His family admitted that he drank liquor before dipping in the water.
They did not notice Labang until his body floated around 2 p.m. while preparing to go home.
When they scooped his body out of the water, white froth was already flowing out of his mouth. His face had also turned bluish.
The family immediately called the local police for assistance.
When members of Batad Police Station and BRAVE rescue group arrived, the victim exhibited no sign of life.
He was taken to Jesus Colmenares District Hospital in Balasan town where he was declared dead on arrival.
