26-yr.-old in Isabela drowns after swimming drunk in “death trap” river

Isabela, Philippines - A 26-year-old construction worker drowned while swimming in an inebriated state in a river in Luna town in Isabela on Sunday, August 24.

The victim, Lito Escarcha, a native of Bicol, and a worker at a rice mill in said province, was with his companions on the day of the incident.

Initially, they planned to go for an outing at a resort in Barangay San Miguel, but the place was closed. They, thereafter, decided to go for a picnic at a river along Barangay Lalog.

The river is considered by some locals as “death trap” due to multiple drowning incidents, prompting authorities to put up a sign to prevent similar occurrences.

The victim’s peers narrated to authorities that Lito was already intoxicated when he went for a swim in the middle of the river.

Moments later, Lito was calling for help, but his peers thought he was just fooling around since he knew how to swim. However, he failed to resurface, alarming the group, who immediately called for help.

Lito was retrieved shortly, but he was no longer breathing, and resuscitation efforts resulted in vain.

According to Luna, Isabela police, the water level in the river rose due to recent rains and Magat Dam’s water release.

In a Facebook post, the victim’s brother, Jason Escarcha asked for any assistance from kindhearted individuals so that they can bring Lito’s remains to Bicol.

“Sana po matulungan niyo po kami, maliit man o malaki, taos-puso po naming tatanggapin ang tulong niyo po,” Jason wrote on Sunday.

Those who wish to provide monetary aid may send any amount to Jason’s GCash account: 09092619174.

The public is reminded not to mix alcohol and swimming, as alcohol not only impairs coordination, judgment, and balance but also suppresses the gag reflex, increasing the risk of drowning.