A farmer and his carabao were struck and killed by lightning in a field in Barangay Bangad, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija.

The victim was identified as Damian Magbitang.

According to Marry Ann Magbitang, the victim's wife, Damian had left for the field to help with farm work despite a thunderstorm.

"Iyon nga po lagi naming pinagsasabihan kapag umuulan lalo na kapag kumululog po... sumisilong po siya," she said.

Witnesses said Damian was standing behind a cart when lightning struck him in the head, killing him instantly along with his carabao.

Another farmer working with him survived the incident, unharmed.

Authorities have ruled out foul play in Damian's death.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) and local government unit (LGU) have assured that assistance will be provided to the bereaved family.

PEMS Marissa Ramos, from the Public Information Office of the Cabanatuan City Police Station, advised the public:

"Kapag nararanasan na po natin [na] malakas na po ang ulan at may kidlat na po, unang-una po iwasan na po nating lumabas sa ating mga tahanan," she said.