7 dead after truck swept by strong currents in Cebu

An 11-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy were among the seven people who died when a pick-up truck carrying 17 individuals was swept away by strong currents in Carmen, Cebu.

The group was crossing an overflowing creek when their vehicle was submerged by the swelling river on Monday evening.

Ten people were rescued, but seven were initially reported missing.

The bodies of all seven missing individuals have since been found, with the last victim discovered in the sea in Borbon, Cebu.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has directed the Office of the President and the Department of Social Welfare and Development to provide assistance to the survivors and affected local government units.

PAGASA reported torrential rains from a thunderstorm combined with easterlies as the cause of the flooding.