58-year-old man swept away by creek in La Trinidad, found dead hours later

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — A search and retrieval operation for a man reportedly swept away by strong creek currents in Barangay Bahong, La Trinidad, Benguet, ended in heartbreak after his lifeless body was found on Monday, August 17, 2026.

The victim, a 58-year-old resident of the barangay, was reportedly swept away by the creek at Sitio Duheb. Police did not disclose his identity to protect the privacy of his grieving family.

According to the La Trinidad Municipal Police Station, as cited by Bombo Radyo-Baguio, a concerned citizen discovered the victim’s body shortly after noon.

The discovery prompted responders to retrieve the victim from the area.

Personnel from the local police station, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), barangay officials, and volunteers worked together in the search and retrieval operation.

Unfortunately, the man was already dead when responders found him. Following the retrieval, his remains were turned over to his family.

Police have not released further details on how the incident occurred or what specifically caused the man to be swept away.

To recall, in March 2026, a 25-year-old security guard who had been reported missing was found in the Balili River in La Trinidad. A subsequent examination confirmed drowning, specifically asphyxia secondary to drowning, as the cause of death. Police ruled out foul play in the case.

In 2024, a 16-year-old boy was also reported to have drowned in a river along the Lubas-Balili area of La Trinidad.

Authorities continue to remind the public to avoid approaching or entering bodies of water during heavy rains or when currents are strong, particularly in areas prone to sudden increases in water levels.

Residents are likewise urged to remain vigilant and immediately report incidents involving missing persons or individuals swept away by floodwaters or strong currents to authorities.