02/10/2026
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The 6th Special Forces βLIONHEARTβ Battalion, under the guidance of Lieutenant Colonel Geoffrey A. Fabros, Commanding Officer, demonstrated its readiness to respond to emergencies as the unit augmented inter-agency search and retrieval operations in Brgy. Kapayawan, Isabela City, Basilan.
On the evening of 30 September 2026, Mr. Nasser M. Hugo, 53, a resident of Brgy. Lumbang, Isabela City, Basilan, was reported missing after being swept away by strong river currents. The Bureau of Fire Protection β Isabela City initially received the report and coordinated with the Philippine Coast Guard β Isabela. Despite initial search efforts, the victim had not yet been located.
Before noon of 01 October 2026, the 6th Special Forces Battalion was tasked through the Isabela City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) to augment the ongoing search and rescue efforts.
The unitβs Scuba Diver Qualified Personnel, together with the 19th Special Forces Company, led by Second Lieutenant Edrain Nico A Tavares, immediately proceeded to the incident area. Working closely with CDRRMO-Isabela City and the Philippine Coast Guard β SOU Central Pasangen Substation, the team conducted planning, coordination, and preparations before carrying out search and retrieval dive sweeps along the assessed stretch of the river.
The operation was temporarily suspended late in the afternoon due to rising water levels and hazardous river conditions, prioritizing the safety of the responding personnel.
Later that evening, the body of Mr. Hugo resurfaced and was immediately recovered by his relatives.
This operation highlights the readiness, responsiveness, and specialized capabilities of the LIONHEARTS, as well as the importance of strong inter-agency coordination during disasters and emergencies. Through unified efforts, timely coordination, and the commitment of responders on the ground, agencies continue to work together in serving and protecting the community.
READY TO RESPOND. READY TO SERVE.