SAF trainee drowns during training

A police officer hoping to join the Philippine National Police's Special Action Force (SAF) drowned during training in Batangas, according to a report by Victoria Tulad on GMA News’ Balitanghali on Sunday.

Patrolman Manny Jose Baldonado drowned during their diagnostic combat swim training in Calatagan last week.

His mother, Noemelita, said that an officer called her to inform her of the tragedy.

“Noong sinabi na, ‘Officer po ni Manny ito, ’ kinabahan na ako. Sabi ko, ‘Ano po bang nangyari sa anak ko?’ Sabi po ng tumawag sa akin, ‘Nadisgrasya po, nalunod po.’" she said.

Baldemor was rushed to the hospital but did not make it. His family suspects there was negligence on the part of the training camp.

"Malaman sana namin ang totoo. Ano ang nangyari kasi sabi po nila nakuha raw nila 'yung anak ko may pulso pa raw, may hininga pa raw. Kaya binigyan ng first aid. Sa layo ‘ata ng ospital hindi na raw po umabot,” Noemelita said.

Baldemor is the second trainee to die during training.

The PNP-SAF has no statement yet regarding the incident. — Joviland Rita/BM, GMA News