River mishap in Benguet leaves driver dead, one drowned

ITOGON, Benguet — A 68-year-old driver died while another passenger drowned after a sport utility vehicle was swept away by a strong river current in a remote village in Itogon town on Friday, police said.

The incident occurred at around 1:20 p.m. in Barangay Dalupirip when the group attempted to cross a river aboard a black Toyota Fortuner after completing a school-related activity, according to a report from the Benguet Police Provincial Office.

Initial investigation showed the vehicle was overpowered by the current, pushed off course and carried approximately 100 meters downstream before becoming half-submerged.

The driver, identified as Rodolfo Ong Tan, a photographer and businessman, was rushed to a hospital but was declared dead on arrival at around 3:55 p.m. due to traumatic brain injuries sustained in the crash.

Four passengers were rescued alive and brought to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities said they were in stable condition.

Neil Clark Ongchangco, a photographer with the Baguio City Public Information Office who was initially reported missing, was later found dead after a search and rescue operation. His body was recovered at around 7:05 p.m., roughly 500 meters from where the vehicle came to rest.

Police said the group had earlier traveled to Tabu Elementary School to conduct a pictorial activity for graduating students before the accident occurred.

Rescue efforts involved personnel from the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, local health office, barangay officials, and civilian volunteers.

Authorities have yet to release further details as the investigation continues.