Missing fisherman in Aparri, Cagayan found dead after 3-day search

BUGUEY, Cagayan — A 58-year-old fisherman from Aparri, Cagayan, who had been missing for three days after going out to sea, was found dead in the waters off Barangay Centro, Buguey, on August 1.

The victim was identified as Rodolfo Villaflor, a resident of Barangay Dodan, Aparri.

According to Ensign Dionisio Mahilum Jr., Assistant Public Information Officer of the Philippine Coast Guard District North Eastern Luzon, Villaflor's family reported him missing on July 29 after he failed to return from a fishing trip.

Mahilum said the victim's son informed authorities that Villaflor had previously suffered a stroke and had been discouraged by his family from going out to sea because of his medical condition.

The Philippine Coast Guard conducted search and retrieval operations for three days, but efforts were hampered by unfavorable weather conditions. Villaflor's body was eventually recovered on August 1.

Following the incident, the Coast Guard renewed its appeal to fishermen to prioritize safety by ensuring they are physically fit before going to sea, monitoring weather advisories, and checking that their boats are seaworthy before every fishing trip.

Fishing remains a primary source of livelihood in many coastal communities in northern Cagayan, including Aparri and Buguey. Authorities said the tragedy underscores the importance of balancing livelihood with safety, particularly for fishermen with existing medical conditions or during adverse weather.

The Coast Guard also reiterated its advice for fishermen and coastal residents to wear life-saving equipment whenever possible, stay updated on weather bulletins, and avoid sailing when sea conditions or health concerns pose risks to life.

The incident adds to a series of water-related emergencies in Region 2 and serves as another reminder that routine fishing trips can quickly turn fatal when health conditions and weather hazards are ignored.