THREE children were seen swimming in the swollen Butuanon River near Cambogaong Bridge on Thursday, August 21, 2025, despite repeated warnings from authorities and residents about the dangers of entering the river during continuous rains.
Eyewitnesses revealed that concerned individuals already tried to stop the children, but the warnings went unheeded.
The strong and fast current, brought by hours of rainfall, made the river particularly hazardous, raising fears of possible accidents or even drowning.
Authorities were quick to respond after receiving reports.
According to lawyer Sally Gonzalo, who was immediately informed of the situation, the safety of children near rivers is a matter of urgent concern.
“It is prohibited. It was dangerous. We immediately instructed the Command Center and the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) when we saw it in the QRT Group Chat to send responders to warn them. We also contacted the barangay officials and concerned parents. The same instructions were relayed to nearby barangays in case similar incidents occur,” Gonzalo said in an interview.
Local disaster officials stressed that heavy rains in the past days have intensified the river’s current, making it unsafe for any form of activity.
The Butuanon River, which cuts across Mandaue and Cebu City, has long been a flood-prone and accident-prone area, especially when water levels rise quickly.
Authorities emphasized the importance of vigilance and parental supervision during the rainy season. They reminded residents that ignoring warnings could put lives at serious risk, especially the lives of children.
Nearby barangay officials also warned parents to keep a closer eye on their children and discourage them from venturing into rivers, especially during unpredictable weather conditions.
While no untoward incident occurred in this case, authorities said the situation should serve as a reminder of the very real dangers posed by the Butuanon River during the rainy season. (ABC)