CEBU, Philippines — February 12, 2026. A 49-year-old mother drowned near Batawang Bridge in Sitio Tapon, Barangay Tabunok, Tabuelan, Cebu, after leaving home to buy milk for her child.

The victim was identified as Susan Guinita Arellano of Sitio Abante, Barangay Bongon. Her body was discovered around 8:00 a.m. in a mangrove area by trucking driver Jerry Ortiz Dela Raya, 36, of Negros Occidental, who immediately alerted nearby residents. 

A local resident, Nerissa Colipano, reported the incident to the Tabuelan Municipal Police Station, prompting a response from police, the Philippine Coast Guard, and personnel from the Rural Health Unit of Tabuelan.

Police Master Sergeant Jemiren Arnado, lead investigator, confirmed that Arellano had left home on Wednesday to purchase milk for her young child. However, her husband told authorities that she had asked a habal-habal driver to deliver the milk instead of returning herself, raising questions about why she was later found near the mangrove area.

Her husband also explained that she occasionally experienced fainting spells and other health issues, which may have contributed to the incident. Authorities declared drowning as the cause of death, though the investigation remains open as police continue to piece together her movements before the tragedy.

The case has drawn sympathy from the community, with neighbors mourning the loss of a mother who was simply trying to provide for her child. Local officials reminded residents to exercise caution when traveling near waterways, especially for those with known health conditions.

This heartbreaking incident underscores the vulnerability of individuals with health issues and highlights the importance of community vigilance in ensuring safety near rivers, bridges, and mangrove areas.

Image from SunStar Cebu