During the height of Typhoon “Tino” on November 4, a wing van crew and a police officer risked their lives to rescue six people trapped by raging floodwaters in Barangay Cotcot, Liloan, Cebu.
An act of bravery that later became controversial after the driver and two helpers were fired for using their company vehicle during the rescue.
Bravery in Action
Videos shared widely on social media showed the crew using their delivery van as a barrier against the strong current. Patrolman Niño Divinagarcia of the Liloan Municipal Police Station worked alongside them, helping residents cling to debris and guiding them to safety as water levels rose rapidly.
At one point, Divinagarcia lost his balance and fell from the vehicle, sustaining injuries. One of the van crew’s helpers quickly pulled him to safety, even as the flood continued to intensify. Moments later, 3 more individuals were carried downstream, prompting the driver to reposition the van to slow the water’s flow, allowing rescuers to reach the victims.
Despite the dangerous conditions, all 6 people were successfully rescued. The coordinated effort between the wing van crew and the responding officer demonstrated quick thinking and teamwork during a life-threatening situation.
Praise from Authorities
Following the rescue, the Police Regional Office 7 (PRO-7) formally recognized the rescuers’ bravery.
“Their quick action and courage in the face of danger show how private citizens can make a profound difference in times of crisis,” Police Brigadier Gen. Redrico Maranan said in a statement.
PRO-7 also noted that their actions likely prevented further casualties, including the possible death of one police officer who was assisting in the rescue. This highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts between civilians and law enforcement during emergencies.
Firing Sparks Concern
Despite their heroism, the driver and 2 helpers were fired by their employer for using the company vehicle during the typhoon. PRO-7 confirmed it is coordinating with government agencies and community partners to explore possible assistance for the 3 men, ensuring they receive support following their termination.
