PINUKPUK, Kalinga – Three minors drowned on the Chico River in Sitio Collog, Barangay Junction, this town, on Sunday afternoon, July 7.
The Kalinga Provincial Police Office identified the victims as Aico Mananeng Daluping, 6, male, of Barangay Pangol, Tanudan, Kalinga; Zia Wayaway Mananeng, 9, female, of Barangay San Juan, Tabuk City, Kalinga, and Mia Mananeng dela Cruz, 9, female, of Barangay San Juan, Tabuk City.
Police said the victims and their parents went to the Chico River to attend a “palanus,” a pre-wedding celebration to confirm the marriage of a couple.
Starlet, 16, Zia's sister, and the victims swam on the river without the knowledge of their parents.
She later on saw Zia drowning on the deep part of the river.
Starlet immediately went to help her but she did not see Aico and Mia following to help her.
The three children drowned. They were rescued and taken to the Pinukpuk District Hospital where they were declared dead.
Police warned the public to be very careful or avoid taking a bath on the Chico River this rainy season due the strong current.