Fisherman found dead after nighttime spearfishing in Southern Leyte

TACLOBAN CITY — A 38-year-old fisherman was found dead Saturday morning after failing to return home from a nighttime spearfishing trip in the waters of Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte, police said.

The victim, identified only as “Gino,” a resident of Padre Burgos, was last seen alive at around 10 p.m. on Friday.

Initial investigation showed that the victim had allegedly been under the influence of alcohol before venturing alone into the sea for nighttime spearfishing.

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After he failed to return home, his brother launched a search operation at around 2 a.m. but was initially unable to locate him.

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During the search, some of the victim’s fishing gear was found floating in the water, raising fears that he drowned.

The search continued until about 7 a.m., when the victim’s brother discovered the fisherman’s body in the waters of Barangay Cantutang.

Personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection assisted in retrieving and transporting the victim to the Padre Burgos Community Hospital, where the attending physician declared him dead on arrival at 7:12 a.m.

Authorities reminded fishermen and residents to exercise caution when engaging in nighttime fishing activities, particularly when alone, during unfavorable weather conditions, or while under the influence of alcohol.

Police said no foul play was initially suspected, but an investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. /gsg

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