Another Pinoy drowns in New Zealand: DFA

MANILA — Another Filipino has drowned in New Zealand following two other water-related deaths in that country, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reported Thursday night.

The incident took place on Wednesday while the 20-year-old victim went swimming with his two friends at the Whanganui River. The DFA has yet to name the victim pending permission from his family.

The victim’s body was found on Thursday between Corliss Island and Languard Rd by a police dive squad, which launched a search operation shortly after he was reported missing.

In a statement, Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Elmer Cato extended the department’s “deepest sympathy” to the bereaved family.

This is the second drowning incident involving a Filipino in a week and the third since October 2018.

Last Friday, international student and Filipino registered nurse Kenny Espinosa was out swimming with friends when he drowned at the Whangarei Falls.

In October, another Filipino drowned while trying to save his nieces.

As a result of these drownings, Ambassador to New Zealand Jesus Gary Domingo said the Embassy will hold townhall meetings to promote better water safety awareness with members of the Filipino community.