• THERESA MAE DULMAN
A typical patrol turned into a life-saving mission on January 9, when a member of the Siquijor Tourist Police Unit rescued a foreign visitor from the depths of Cambugahay Falls.
The officer, Patrolman Fletch John Quiliquite, was monitoring the popular tourist destination in Barangay Cangclaran, in the town of Lazi, Siquijor, at approximately 11:30 a.m. when he noticed an Indian national struggling to stay afloat.
Witnesses reported that the visitor was visibly distressed and calling for help while being overwhelmed by the water.
Quiliquite dove into the natural pool to reach the drowning man. Despite the potential risks posed by the water’s depth and currents, the officer successfully pulled the tourist to safety. His quick intervention prevented a near-fatal tragedy and ensured the visitor remained unharmed.
Footage and accounts of the rescue quickly circulated on social media, garnering thousands of views and widespread praise from netizens who lauded the officer.
Provincial Director of the Siquijor Police Provincial Office (SPPO) PCol. Emelie Santos, formally commended Quiliquite for his selfless act.
“His quick thinking saved a life and highlighted the dedication of our force to protect both our residents and the visitors who come to experience our island,” Santos said in an official statement.
Santos stated that the SPPO would continue to prioritize tourist safety through heightened vigilance and constant patrols in high-traffic areas like Cambugahay Falls to ensure Siquijor remains a safe destination for international travelers.*
