Cop falls overboard during seaborne patrol, found dead

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Fishermen yesterday found the body of a policeman who fell from a boat during a patrol against trawl fishers on Wednesday.

The body of S/Sgt. Mechael Gatinao, 42, became entangled in a fishing net in Barangay San Isidro in Sibunag, Guimaras Island – about 20 nautical miles from where he fell from the boat.

According to reports, Gatinao, a member of the Nueva Valencia police station, was about to board the boat of the illegal fishers they were chasing when the incident happened. As about 15 kilos of firearms and bullets were strapped to his body, Gatinao reportedly had a hard time staying afloat.

At least 12 boats from Guimaras province, Bantay Dagat, Philippine Coast Guard and fisherfolk responded to the call for search and rescue.

Col. Rhea Santos, Guimaras police chief, said Gatinao left behind three children. She added that Gatinao has a twin brother who is also a policeman in the province.