Manila, September 29: When the river near his Manila home burst its banks, Muelmar Luz Magallanes tied a rope around his waist and ferried his three younger siblings to safety.
Then he went back for his parents, then for his neighbours, trapped on rooftops. Finally, Mr Magallanes rescued a six-month-old baby who was being swept away on a polystyrene box. But the young man paid for his heroic deeds with his life.
As the Philippines appealed for international aid yesterday, with the death toll from Tropical Storm Ketsana and devastating floods rising to 140, Mr Magallanes’ family mourned their courageous son.
The 18-year-old construction worker saved more than 30 lives, including that of the baby and her mother, Menchie Penalosa. “He gave his life for my baby. I will never forget his sacrifice,” said Mrs Penalosa.
–Agencies