The Bacolod City Government moved quickly to support the family of a 12-year-old student who died in a drowning incident in Barangay Vista Alegre.
Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya led efforts to deliver aid to the bereaved household, emphasizing the local government’s commitment to standing with residents amid the crisis, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office said.
Johneil Beligan, a Grade VI student, drowned in a river in the barangay on the afternoon of January 28. He was set to celebrate his 13th birthday in March and was preparing for elementary graduation.
Upon being informed of the tragedy, Gasataya instructed relevant offices to provide immediate support. PESO Coordinator Jovelyn Canoy visited the Beligan family on the Mayor’s behalf to offer condolences and ensure urgent assistance was provided. Groceries and essential items were delivered right away, while additional financial aid to cover burial costs and other needs is currently being processed.
Johneil was the youngest of four siblings. He is survived by his father Nonito Beligan (61), mother Delia Beligan (45), grandmother Carmelita Porras (86), aunt Emilia Yanos, and his brothers and sisters.
In a brief moment of grief, his mother said, “That I will never forget you,” expressing the family’s profound sorrow over the loss of their youngest child.
Updated reports indicate Johneil and several classmates went to the river after school let out early for a half-day schedule. While there, he reportedly jumped into the water and accidentally struck a classmate’s head, causing him to hit his own chin. The impact led to loss of consciousness, and he sank beneath the surface.
A nearby resident who was washing clothes witnessed the incident and tried to help, but the water’s depth delayed retrieval. Approximately 10 minutes later, Johneil was pulled from the river and rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead despite resuscitation efforts.
The Bacolod City Government extends its deepest sympathies to the Beligan family and pledges ongoing support and coordination with concerned agencies during this difficult period.
Gasataya also issued a reminder to parents, guardians, and schools to closely supervise children’s activities – particularly near bodies of water – to help prevent similar tragedies.*
