River swallows boy, 13

NORTH COTABATO, Philippines  – Members of a rescue team have been searching since Sunday for a 13-year-old boy who was carried away by the current in a river in Libungan town here.

Jimboy Gravena was reportedly taking a bath in the Gumaga River when he lost his balance and fell into the water.

“The current was strong due to continuous rains during the previous days,” said Chief Inspector Bernard Tayong, Libungan police chief.

Police officers and Gumaga village leaders led by Joe Diaz are searching for Gravena.

Earlier, rescuers found the body of farmer Gilbert Columbres, who drowned while crossing the Simuay River in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao over the weekend.

In nearby Buldon town, authorities have yet to find farmer Mastura Maungco, who drowned last Wednesday in the Nuyo River.