Ilocos norte: Rescuers continue to search for a missing farmer who was last seen heading toward the Padsan River to secure his carabao amid a sudden rain-induced rise in the water level on Aug. 6. The missing farmer was identified as Alejandro Gaba, 59, a resident of Barangay Hilario in Banna, Ilocos Norte.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Banna reported that Gaba "was not seen returning to his residence and has since been considered missing." The search operation is being conducted by MDRRMO personnel, with assistance from the Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine National Police, Philippine Marines, and volunteer rescue divers.

"The search remains difficult due to the strong and continuous flow of water," Banna Mayor Mary Chrislyn Abadilla stated on Friday. The local government has sought assistance from communities near the river and the media, regarding the missing farmer. "The public is urged to report any helpful information to authorities immediately," Abadilla added.

Ilocos Norte has been experiencing light to moderate rains over the past few days. On Friday, a low-pressure area being monitored west of Batac, Ilocos Norte developed into Tropical Depression Fabian.