Four missing foreign hikers in the Philippines were rescued after being lost for days due to poor weather conditions. They survived by eating plants while lost and were found near the Silab hydropower plant, following the discovery of their two companions the previous day. Authorities indicated that adverse weather contributed to their disorientation while on a challenging hiking trail.
On Saturday, local authorities confirmed the rescue of four foreign hikers missing for days in the central Philippines. This follows the recovery of two of their companions the day prior. The six-man group, comprising nationals from Germany, Britain, Russia, and Canada, embarked on a planned four-hour excursion in Negros Oriental province, which experienced heavy rainfall.
Rescue official Jose Lawrence Silorio reported that the army rescuers found the hikers near the Silab hydropower plant in a densely vegetated area. The men were identified as Germans Aldwin Fink, 60, and Wolfgang Schlenker, 67; Russian Anton Chernov, 38; and Canadian Terry De Gunten, 50. These individuals had informed rescue teams that they lost their way due to fog.
The four hikers were located at approximately 9:44 am (0144 GMT). Silorio noted their overall condition was stable, although they had minor abrasions. One hiker required a blanket due to feeling cold but was able to stand independently shortly after. It was reported that the group survived by consuming edible plants found in the forest.
The group had strayed about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from where fellow hikers Torsten Martin Groschupp, 58, and Alexander Radvanyi, 63, were discovered the previous Friday. Visual evidence shared by police showed De Gunten with bloodied legs receiving assistance in an ambulance, while Chernov was wrapped in a blanket on a stretcher.
Authorities indicated that adverse weather conditions likely contributed to the group’s disorientation on a challenging trail which they navigated without a guide. Valencia police officer Henry Japay emphasized that rainy weather resulted in limited visibility and suggested the group might have sought shelter during the rainfall due to zero cell phone reception in the area.
In summary, four foreign hikers were successfully rescued in the Philippines after going missing due to adverse weather conditions. Their survival was attributed to their resourcefulness, as they managed to eat edible plants while lost. The overall situation highlights the dangers of hiking in difficult terrains without a guide, especially during inclement weather.
Original Source: www.gulftoday.ae
