Two dead in Negros Occ drowning, electrocution

By Glazyl Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – A businessman drowned, and a laborer was electrocuted in separate incidents in Negros Occidental over the past three days.

In Binalbagan town, a 74-year-old businessman died after drowning in the sea at Sitio Lamawan, Barangay Sto. Rosario, on Monday.

Police Major Randy Babor, Binalbagan police chief, reported that the victim went swimming but was caught by big waves due to the inclement weather.

He was swept by a strong current into deeper waters but managed to call for help.

Rescuers and bystanders attempted to pull him to shore using a floating device and a rope, but the effort was hindered by the rough waves.

According to Babor, one rescuer sustained injuries during the operation.

Babor added that bystanders indicated the victim may have hit his head on a hard object, causing him to lose consciousness before drowning.

The victim was rushed to the Binalbagan Infirmary, where he was pronounced dead.

Authorities remain unclear on why the victim decided to swim despite the bad weather.

Meanwhile, a 42-year-old laborer died after being electrocuted in Barangay Cabahug, Cadiz City, on Sunday.

The victim, whose name was withheld, was a resident of Barangay Alijis in Bacolod City.

According to the police, the incident occurred around 4 p.m. while the victim was having a family bonding session and drinking with friends.

He was electrocuted after allegedly touching a hanging wire connected to a fence while urinating beside a resort wall.

He was taken to Cadiz District Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.