Teen found dead after river mishap in Bulacan; 3 still missing
The body of one of four missing teenagers swept away by strong currents in the Marilao River was recovered Wednesday night, Aug. 12, in Sitio Kaybanban, Barangay Parada, Santa Maria, Bulacan.
Authorities said the victim, a 17‑year‑old boy, was identified by his family.
His body, swollen and barely recognizable, was retrieved by rescuers from San Jose del Monte who failed to coordinate with the Santa Maria Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
The youths reportedly jumped into the river in Barangay Gayagaya, San Jose del Monte, on Monday, Aug. 10, daring each other to cross despite warnings from barangay personnel about rising waters.
Witnesses said the group briefly left the area but returned to continue the challenge before being swept away.
Search and retrieval operations for the three other missing boys are ongoing, with local governments of San Jose del Monte and Caloocan, the Coast Guard Auxiliary, and Bulacan rescue teams working together.