Rescuers search for 4 kids who jumped into Olongapo river

OLONGAPO CITY — A search and rescue operation is underway for four children who were reported missing after they jumped into a swollen river here during a heavy Sunday afternoon downpour.

The children, aged 10 to 14, were swept away by a strong current at about 11 a.m., said Angelito Layug, chief of the Olongapo City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

Layug said the children were playing under the bridge near the river in Barangay (village) Sta. Rita when they were accosted by village watchmen.

“The children suddenly jumped into the water. There were about nine of them and we are now looking for four who have not been accounted for,” Layug told the Inquirer.

Layug said there were contradicting accounts from witnesses, and the number of missing children could be higher. /je