Search is on for 2 missing mountain climbers in Zambales

Authorities have launched a search and rescue operation for 2 mountain climbers who were reported to have been carried away by strong river currents in Zambales province Saturday.

The ABS-CBN reported that the two were part of a mountain climbing group who were already descending Mt. Annawangen in Barangay Pundaquit Saturday afternoon.

The report quoted Erwell Sadernas, village chairman of Barangay Pundaquit in San Antonio town in Zambales.

Sadernas identified the missing mountain trekkers as Anna Capili, 30 years old and her 13-year-old relative Jessielou Capili. The two were reportedly from Sta. Maria town in Bulacan province.

Sadernas said the group was crossing a river when strong currents due to a heavy downpour swept the two who were in the leading part of the group.

The village chairman said he was able to talk with the members of the group.

Sademas identified those who survived the incident as Jane Magpantay, Doris Comia, Mark Vital, Edy Callano, Shynette Tolentino, Gayle Recto and Boys Figueras.

The village chairman said that this was not the first incident in the area as he cited a similar case last year.

During the search operation launched by the Philippine Navy a banca overturned also due to the strong river current. All of those onboard the banca were however rescued including a 1-year old child.

The Philippine Navy said it has called for support from the Air Force in the search for the 2 missing mountain climbers.

Commander Lyndon Ruiz, Navy’s over-all assistance and rescue team commander, meanwhile recommended that a system should be set up to ensure the safety of tourists in the area.