THE body of a nine-year-old child who was reported missing after falling into the Lasang River, Panabo City, Davao del Norte was discovered on Sunday morning, July 13, 2025, ending an overnight search and rescue operation.
According to the Panabo City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the body of the victim, identified as Warren Maquida, was recovered at around 10 a.m. at Purok Centro 1, Barangay JP Laurel, just a few meters from where he was last seen.
The discovery was made with the assistance of his family and search teams who resumed the operation early that morning.
Initial reports revealed that the child had been playing near the riverbank on Saturday afternoon, July 12, when he accidentally slipped and fell into the swollen river. Witnesses said the current was strong due to continuous rainfall in the area.
Emergency responders, together with local barangay officials and volunteers, immediately launched a search and rescue operation.
However, the efforts were halted at around 5 p.m. due to rising floodwaters and worsening river conditions brought by heavy rain.
At 6 a.m. the following day, the team resumed operations under improved weather conditions. After nearly four more hours of searching, Warren’s body was found and was immediately returned to his family.
Authorities extended their condolences to the Maquida family and acknowledged the efforts of the responders, local volunteers, and residents who helped during the search.
CDRRMO officials also issued a reminder to parents and guardians to remain vigilant, especially during the rainy season when rivers and creeks can become dangerous. They urged the public to keep children away from flood-prone or high-risk areas and to report any emergencies immediately.