Cop, daughter rescued from drowning in Sipalay

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — A police officer and his 16-year-old daughter were rescued from drowning at Poblacion Beach in Barangay 5, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, last week.

Police Lt. Col. Joem Malong, spokesperson for Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), said the 39-year-old officer is assigned to the 1st Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company and resides in Silay City.

The incident occurred on Sept. 18 during a family outing when the officer and his daughter went for a swim.

The Philippine Coast Guard reported that both were swept away by strong currents and large waves, pulling them into deeper waters.

Responders from the Coast Guard Station Southern Negros Occidental and the local rescue team quickly launched a search and rescue operation and were able to bring the victims back to shore safely and conscious.

They were initially treated at the City Health Office before being transferred to a hospital for further medical evaluation.

Both have since been discharged, Malong said in a Saturday interview.

The Coast Guard emphasized the importance of maintaining a presence in coastal areas and strengthening partnerships with local responders to ensure rapid action during maritime emergencies.

They stressed that every second counts when saving lives.