US Marine drowns in Bangui, Ilocos Norte

MANILA, Philippines — A member of the United States Marines reportedly drowned while swimming in the coastal waters of Bangui town, Ilocos Norte on December 20, according to police.

According to a report sent by Bangui police investigator Staff Sergeant Dominic Tangliben, the 20-year-old victim was identified as Corporal Edmond Zhu, a member of the US Marines based in Laoag City through a mission order.

According to Tangliben, Zhu, along with other members of the US and Philippine Marines, went to a beach in Sitio Suyo in Barangay Baruyen for joint military training.

Zhu was purportedly preparing to swim but was warned by managers of a souvenir shop nearby that the water “is not good for swimming” at that time.

However, the victim, along with Corporal Isaac Torres, went for a swim without notifying their companions at 12:30 p.m.

Minutes later, police said Torres was heard shouting asking for help. He was rescued by his companions, but Zhu was only recovered after approximately 15 minutes due to the strong current of the water.

Based on the report, the group tried to revive Zhu. He was later transferred to Bangui District Hospital by responding medical personnel of the Rural Health Office, but he was declared dead at 2:15 p.m.