Search, rescue, and retrieval operations are ongoing in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro for a missing Indigenous Mangyan man, who was reportedly swept away by strong river currents.

The incident occurred at around 2pm on February 8, 2025 near the Bucayao Grande River in Naujan.

Rico Macawili, a 47-year-old from the the indigenous Mangyan community, was last seen being overwhelmed by the river’s powerful flow.

The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Naujan, along with a Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) team and three members from the Philippine Coast Guard Naujan Sub-station, have been actively searching the area marked in yellow on maps distributed to the public, detailing the search path from the incident site downstream.

As of the latest updates on February 11, 2025, the search has yet to locate Macawili.

MDRRMO is urging residents, particularly those near the river, to stay vigilant and report any information that could aid in the rescue efforts.

The search began on February 9 following the initial report of Macawili’s disappearance.

The operations are being led by Kevin John Genteroy, the Operations Division Chief of MDRRMO Naujan, with support from local barangay officials and volunteers from San Andres and Banuton.

In light of this incident, MDRRMO Naujan has provided the following safety tips for dealing with water rescue situations: Reach: Use a sturdy object like a stick or branch to reach out to the person in distress, allowing them to grab hold safely; Throw: Toss a flotation device, such as a life buoy or rope, to help the individual float and move closer to safety; Row: If possible, use a boat or paddle to approach the person but maintain safety by not getting too close to avoid being pulled in; and Go: Do not jump into the water unless absolutely necessary and with proper safety measures in place. Instead, call for help to ensure a coordinated and safe rescue.

These measures are critical in preventing further incidents during rescue attempts, MDRRMO said.

The community’s cooperation and adherence to these guidelines could be vital in saving lives, MDRRMO Naujan said.

Photos from MDRRMO Naujan