By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Two minors were declared dead on arrival by medical staff after they reportedly drowned while swimming in a river in Barangay 13, Victorias City, Negros Occidental, yesterday afternoon.
Police identified the fatalities as 13-year-old Kent Hechanova, a resident of Barangay 9, Victorias City; and Danica Ilustre, a resident of Barangay Villamonte, Bacolod City.
Victorias City police chief, Police Supt. Herman Garboza, said the victims were invited by their friend Miles Villacin to take a bath and swim in the Malogo River.
Although accompanied by their aunt, both victims were not able to take the strong current of the river resulting in their drowning.
Both victims were rushed to the Ikaayong Lawas Medical Clinic in Victorias City but were later declared dead.
Villacin, who was also swept away by the current, managed to survive and is now recovering in the said clinic./WDJ