32-year-old firefighter dies while rescuing family stranded by flood in Tayabas, Quezon

32-year-old firefighter dies while rescuing family stranded by flood in Tayabas, Quezon

📌 On Thursday, November 12, a 32-year-old firefighter (FO2) who was rescuing a family of four trapped by suddenly rising river water in Barangay Lakawan, Tayabas City, Quezon province, in southern Luzon, was swept away by the current and went missing, and was recovered dead the same day. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) mourned his death, honoring his courage and dedication.

■ What happened
· A firefighter from the Tayabas City Central Fire Station was deployed to rescue a family of four stranded by the rising river (Manila Bulletin)
· Contact was lost after the river rose rapidly, and his body was recovered the same day after a search
· The condition of the family he was trying to rescue has not been reported

■ Current status
· BFP chief Fire Director Jesus Wilberto Rico Neil Cuan Tiu expressed condolences to the bereaved family and colleagues, saying, "His courage in trying to save lives will be remembered forever"

■ Advice for residents and travelers
· When it rains, rivers can rise in an instant, so stay away from riverbanks and streams
· Do not cross flooded roads or bridges, whether on foot or by vehicle
· If you are trapped by water, move to higher ground, call for rescue, and wait

■ Sources
Inquirer (11/13), Manila Bulletin (11/13)

■ Photo
· Memorial graphic for the late firefighter — Inquirer