By JEN BAYLON

A barangay councilor and a member of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (LDRRMO) died after they were electrocuted while removing Christmas decorations in Negros Oriental’s Mabinay town on Monday, January 6.

Municipal police identified the victims as 41-year-old Elnie Endencio, a councilor from Barangay Arebasore, and 31-year-old Jonel Tenebroso, a lift operator from the LDRRMO.

The accident happened around 5:30 p.m. in Barangay Poblacion.

Three others sustained injuries: 33-year-old Barangay Arebasore Councilor Jay-ar Norbe, 19-year-old Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson Realyn Billares, and 30-year-old barangay secretary Kimjun Padasay.

According to Lt. Stephen Polinar, Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office spokesperson, the victims were tasked to retrieve the decorations using a boom truck when they accidentally struck the main power line.

The two victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while the injured individuals are currently reported to be in stable condition.

The incident occurred during rainy weather conditions, which may have contributed to the electrocution.

Polinar said the victims were not aware that they would hit a main line despite exerting precautionary measures.

An investigation is ongoing./JB, WDJ