Mayor's staff dies attempting to save 2 children from drowning
By Bonita Ermac
MANAIT (FB)
ILIGAN CITY – A 29-year-old staff of Mayor Frederick Sia here died while attempting to rescue two children from drowning at Soda Beach in Purok Talisay, Barangay Santa Filomena, this city, Friday afternoon.
Police identified the victim as Marjohn Yana Manait, 29, of Barangay Digkilaan. He is survived by his wife and one child.
Investigation said Manait was swept away by strong current while trying to rescue two minors who were struggling in the water. The children were successfully saved but Manait disappeared beneath the waves. Authorities recovered his body in a search and retrieval operation.
People mourned the death of Manait who was described as a true hero whose selfless act gave two children a second chance at life.
In a Facebook post, the Barangay Digkilaan Council described him as a symbol of courage, compassion, and selfless service. “His sacrifice represents the highest form of love—giving one's own life so that others may live.”