2 teens missing after being swept by strong currents in Eastern Samar

TACLOBAN CITY— Two teenagers were reported missing on Saturday afternoon, February 28, after they were swept away by strong currents while swimming off the waters of Calicoan Island in Guiuan town, Eastern Samar.

In a Notice to Mariners issued by the Philippine Coast Guard through the Coast Guard Sub-Station Guiuan, authorities said the incident was reported by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Guiuan at around 3 p.m.

According to the report, three teenagers were swimming in the vicinity waters of Calicoan Island when they were suddenly carried away by a strong current.

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One of the victims managed to swim to safety and reported the incident to authorities. However, the two others remain missing as of this 6 p.m. on Saturday.

The missing individuals were identified as Irish Christian Quisada, 15, of Barangay Cantahay, and Kyle Baquinon, 14, of Barangay 11, all in Guiuan.

The Coast Guard has alerted all mariners and vessels navigating within Guiuan waters and nearby areas to be on the lookout for the missing teenagers. Ship owners and watercraft operators were urged to immediately render assistance if the victims are sighted and to report to the nearest Coast Guard office.

Calicoan Island, known for its surfing spots and strong rip currents during certain conditions, is located in the eastern portion of Guiuan facing the Pacific Ocean.

Authorities have not yet released further details on the ongoing search and rescue operations. INQ /mr