Family’s Joy Turns to Grief as Daughter Drowns at Resort.

Pagadian City, Philippines – A joyous family celebration in Pagadian City turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on June 2, 2024, when 17-year-old Marian drowned at a private resort. The family had gathered to celebrate the graduation of Marian’s younger brother, who was moving up to high school.

While swimming in the children’s pool with her classmates, Marian, who did not know how to swim, moved to the deeper adult pool without her family noticing.

“Hindi yun marunong lumangoy. Galing yun sa mababaw kaya lang lumipat sa malalim,” (She couldn’t swim. She was in the shallow end but then she moved to the deep end) said Marian’s father, Cleto Ando.

The lifeguard on duty only noticed Marian floating in the water after she had already drowned. She was rushed to the hospital, but sadly, was declared dead upon arrival.

The resort management has not yet issued a public statement, but they have reportedly agreed to cover the costs of Marian’s funeral. “They will cover all the expenses. That’s what we agreed on,” Ando added.

The family has decided not to pursue legal action against the resort. However, Staff Sergeant Arlyn Camarelle, Chief of the Women and Children’s Protection Desk at the Pagadian City Police Station, stated that they are ready to assist the family if they change their minds. “Kung willing sila na magsampa ng kaso, handa kami. Sa ngayon isinailalim sa post mortem examination ang biktima. Kung ano man ang plano ng pamilya, narito lang kami,” (If they are willing to file a case, we are ready. For now, the victim is undergoing a post-mortem examination. We are here to support the family in whatever they decide to do) Camarelle said.