Fisherman finds floating body

CEBU, Philippines – A fisherman found a floating body being washed ashore in the Mactan Channel yesterday morning near Sitio Toril, Barangay Canjulao, Lapu-Lapu City.

The fisherman, who was out fishing that time, went back on his way and reported the incident to the police. Police records did not indicate the name of the fisherman.

Later, the body was identified to be of Venancio Rica, 32, a firecracker maker temporarily residing in Purok Shooting Star, Barangay Babag 2 but a native of Lanao Del Norte.

According to Police Officer 2 Jerson Alparito of Lapu-Lapu City Police Office Homicide Section, investigation revealed that hours before his body was discovered floating, Rica was seen having a drinking spree with friends only identified as “Budong Rala” and a certain “Paklay.”

The three, who were reportedly drunk, decided to go fishing in the sea but when they arrived, they noticed Rica slowly heading towards the mangroves, police records said.

Being intoxicated, Budong and Paklay reportedly went home, unaware that the victim already went missing.

When the fisherman discovered the body, it was rushed to Lapu-Lapu City District Office but was declared dead-on-arrival.