The Trail That Bound a community: How a Morning Walk on Mt. Ampacao Sparked a Flawless Rescue

In the morning of May 18, 2026, an immediate rescue operation was conducted by police officers of Sagada Municipal Police Station (MPS) after a minor lost consciousness while trekking at Mount Ampacao, Sagada, Mountain Province.

According to the minor’s companion, the two were walking along the trail when the minor unexpectedly collapsed. The companion made a split-second decision and ran all the way back home to get help.

Fortunately, members of the Sagada Environmental Tour Guides Organization (SETGO), who were conducting a cleanup drive nearby, discovered the minor lying unconscious in a bushy portion of the mountain and immediately contacted the Sagada MPS for police assistance.

Responding officers PSSg Cecilia Likigan, a member of PSBRC Class 2015-01 “PANABAK” and a native of Sagada, Mountain Province; PSSg Benjie Baldo, a member of PSBRC Class 2015-02 “SUMIKLAB” and a native of Sabangan, Mountain Province; and Pat Ben Fialiwan Jr., a member of PSBRC Class 2021-01 “PANSADAGAN,” also a native of Sabangan, immediately proceeded to the area.

Upon arrival, the police officers, together with SETGO members and local responders, provided immediate first aid to stabilize the minor.

The team carefully evacuated the victim from the mountainous terrain and transported the individual to St. Theodore’s Hospital for further medical evaluation and treatment.

The quick response of both community volunteers and police personnel ensured the immediate rescue of the minor, underscoring the importance of coordination and preparedness in emergencies in remote areas. (RPIO PRO CAR / File Photos)