Two Dutch nationals safely rescued in Ifugao

BANAUE, Ifugao — A swift and well-coordinated Search and Rescue (SAR) operation conducted by the dedicated Haggiyo Cops of the Ifugao Police Provincial Office (PPO) led to the successful rescue of two foreign nationals in the remote terrain of Sitio Lamagan, Barangay Cambulo, Banaue, Ifugao, on the afternoon of September 3, 2023.

The two missing foreigners were identified as Roy Schouten, 22 years old, and Rich Schouten, 19 years old, both hailing from the Netherlands.

Their ordeal, which began on September 2, 2023, while trekking in the mountainous area of Barangay Cambulo and Barangay Pula, Banaue, Ifugao, came to a positive conclusion due to the dedicated efforts of the Ifugao PPO.

PCOL Davy Vicente Limmong, the Provincial Director of Ifugao PPO, promptly responded to the situation, mobilizing police officers from the Banaue Municipal Police Station (MPS) and the 2nd Ifugao Provincial Mobile Force Company.

The immediate deployment of personnel followed the receipt of information about the missing foreigners.

Collaborating with the Bureau of Fire Protection-Banaue, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, and civilian volunteers, the combined team initiated SAR operations in the challenging mountain ranges of Barangay Cambulo and Barangay Pula, Banaue.

Their dedicated efforts ultimately led to the successful rescue of the two Dutch nationals.

Upon their safe recovery, the Schouten siblings received immediate first aid for minor injuries they had sustained during their ordeal.

The SAR team then guided them back to the town proper for further medical intervention and support.

Regional Director PBGen David K. Peredo Jr. commended the Haggiyo Cops for their swift and efficient response, which played a crucial role in ensuring the safe rescue of the Schouten siblings.

This successful operation underscores the commitment and professionalism of the Ifugao PPO and its partners in preserving the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors in the province.