Laoag posthumously lauds youngster for heroic act

By Dominic B. dela Cruz, Staff reporter

LAOAG CITY—The city government of Laoag has posthumously honored 12-year-old Mark Khianne Asuncion of Barangay 33-A La Paz for his courage and selfless attempt to save two cousins during a drowning incident in the barangay last year.

The Sangguniang Panlungsod approved a resolution commending Asuncion as a “Young Hero of La Paz” for risking his own life to rescue his cousins, an act that ultimately cost him his own young life.

Laoag Councilor Jaybee Baquiran, who cited the boy’s extraordinary courage and presence of mind, said Asuncion immediately responded after seeing his two cousins in danger on September 12, 2025.

According to the resolution, the two cousins were in a life-threatening situation when Asuncion intervened. He managed to rescue both of them and bring them to safety, but tragically drowned in the course of the incident.

The council recognized Asuncion for placing the safety and lives of others before his own and described his actions as an extraordinary display of courage, compassion and selflessness.

The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), through Officer-in-Charge Dr. Melvin Medel D. Manuel, formally endorsed the posthumous recognition, citing the boy’s bravery and sacrifice.

The CDRRMO said the recognition would serve as a lasting tribute to Asuncion and could inspire young people and the community to value compassion, courage and the willingness to help others in times of danger.

Baquiran said the Sangguniang Panlungsod recognized Asuncion as a Young Hero of La Paz, whose courage and sacrifice would be remembered by the people of Barangay 33-A and the entire City of Laoag.

The resolution also conveyed the city government’s sympathy and condolences to Asuncion’s bereaved family.

The council said formally honoring the young boy was an appropriate expression of the city’s gratitude and respect for his life, courage and selfless concern for others.

His story, the council said, serves as a solemn reminder that acts of heroism can come from ordinary members of the community who choose to help others despite the danger to themselves.