Cavite, Philippines: In a sobering development, Apprentice Seaman Mori Caguay of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) was confirmed to have died by drowning. The tragic incident occurred during a PCG Water Search and Rescue Training in Cavite on November 16. An autopsy conducted by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) revealed that Caguay’s death resulted from a loss of oxygen supply to the brain due to drowning. No other injuries indicative of alternative causes were found on Caguay’s body.
The NBI is continuing its investigation to ascertain whether the trainers involved in the exercise are liable for the incident. The PCG has stated that any trainers found responsible for Caguay’s death will face punitive action. It is noteworthy that Caguay’s death is one of two recent fatalities during the Coast Guard’s water rescue course, with another trainee death reported during training in Palawan on November 15.
In response to speculations, the PCG has denied that the deaths were due to hazing or initiation rites and has pledged full cooperation with the NBI’s ongoing investigation.