Baguio City Mourns Loss of Photojournalists in Itogon Tragedy

UPDATE May 20, 2026 10:54 AM:

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Baguio City is in mourning following the tragic loss of two members of its photography community after a vehicle was swept away by flash floods along the Agno River in Itogon, Benguet on March 27, 2026.

Introduction

A wave of grief has swept across Baguio City after two photojournalists lost their lives in a flash flood incident in Barangay Dalupirip, Itogon, Benguet on Friday afternoon, March 27, 2026.

The victims, identified as Rodolfo “Ompong” Tan and Neil Clark Ongchangco, were part of a group of photographers who had just completed an outreach activity for graduating students of Tabu Elementary School. What began as a day of service and celebration ended in tragedy.

The Incident Along Agno River

According to the Itogon Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the group attempted to cross a section of the Agno River at around 1:20 PM when a sudden rise in water level triggered strong currents.

The vehicle carrying six individuals was quickly overwhelmed. It was pushed, tilted, and carried approximately 100 meters downstream before becoming half-submerged.

Emergency responders were immediately deployed to the scene.

Rescue and Casualties

Five individuals were initially retrieved from the vehicle and brought to the Itogon District Hospital. Among them, Rodolfo Tan, 68, was declared dead on arrival.

Four other passengers were reported to be in stable condition.

Another passenger, Neil Clark Ongchangco, was initially reported missing. A search, rescue, and retrieval operation was conducted along the river. His body was later recovered at around 7:05 PM by a local diver approximately 500 meters from where the vehicle had come to rest.

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A Community in Mourning

The loss of Tan and Ongchangco has deeply affected both the media and photography communities in Baguio.

Neil Clark Ongchangco was a member of the Baguio Public Information Office, a familiar presence in public government events where he quietly documented moments that mattered to the community. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong described him as a remarkable public servant whose kindness, humility, and willingness to help defined the way he served others. He shared that their Sunday biking community will never be the same without Neil, a loss that will be deeply felt by those who knew him.

Rodolfo “Ompong” Tan was widely respected not only for his photography but also for his service to others. He was recognized as one of Baguio’s Outstanding Citizens in 2022 for his contributions to the community.

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Beyond his craft, Tan dedicated his time to mentoring children with autism, helping them express themselves through photography. According to his fellow photojournalists, as a leader of the Baguio Photographers Club, he championed initiatives that empowered children with autism. In collaboration with the Autism Society of the Philippines (ASP), including its Baguio-Benguet chapter, he helped create safe and meaningful spaces where these children could explore photography and express how they see the world. He was also actively involved in disaster response initiatives, using his skills to support relief and awareness efforts.

For many, he was more than a photographer. He was a mentor, a volunteer, and a pillar in the community.

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Remembering Rodolfo Tan and Neil Ongchangco

The loss of Rodolfo “Ompong” Tan and Neil Clark Ongchangco has left a profound impact on Baguio’s community, particularly among fellow photographers and journalists. Both were known not only for their exceptional skills behind the camera but also for their unwavering commitment to documenting and uplifting the stories of the people in the Cordillera region. Tan, a veteran in the field, was deeply respected for his ability to capture the essence of local culture and the struggles faced by the community. Ongchangco, a rising star, was celebrated for his vibrant approach to storytelling through images. Their work was more than just a profession; it was a passion for social justice and highlighting the beauty of the human spirit. As the community mourns, many are sharing their favorite photographs and memories, celebrating the moments that inspired them and the legacies they leave behind. Fundraisers and tribute events are being planned to honor their memory and support their families during this trying time.

Community Response and Support Initiatives

In the wake of this tragic incident, the Baguio community has come together to provide support for the families of the victims and those affected by the flash flood. Various local organizations have initiated fund drives to raise money for funeral expenses and to offer financial assistance to the bereaved families. Social media has become a powerful tool for mobilizing support, with numerous hashtags circulating to encourage donations and spread awareness about the challenges faced by affected families in Itogon. Additionally, the local government has pledged to improve disaster preparedness and response protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Community forums are being organized to discuss effective measures to enhance public safety during inclement weather, ensuring that the memories of Tan and Ongchangco serve as a catalyst for positive change. The resilience of the Baguio community shines through as its members rally together, united in their grief and determination to support one another.

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