Missing persons in San Ricardo tragedy declared dead

The municipal disaster coordinating council of San Ricardo, Southern Leyte yesterday declared dead the four persons reported missing during the fluvial parade that ended in tragedy last Sunday.

The four missing persons declared dead are Benjie Vestal, 34, his daughter Rhea Patricia Vestal, 4, Jerose Galabo, 7, and Jenny Abuelo, 9.

The declaration brings the fatalities to a total of 20 persons. Earlier, 16 persons, mostly children, were confirmed to have died from drowning immediately after a boat, which was carrying devotees of the Sto. Niño in a fluvial parade, capsized. It was reported to be carrying more than its capacity of 60 people.

The provincial government of Southern Leyte through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development has already sent 50 packs of assorted goods to the victims.

Provincial Administrator Dennis Murallos said that the provincial government will give P3,000 financial assistance to the families of the fatalities. - Jose P. Sollano