Mark, a computer programmer originally from the UK, had moved to Manila for work reasons and upon meeting his partner Mary Anne Cruz decided to make a permanent move to the Filipino capital.
Tragedy struck the new couple however when Mark, Mary Anne and her two sons decided to go a swim during a fun family trip. Mary Anne’s ten-year-old son got into difficulties and struggled to fight against the river’s strong currents.
Attempting to come to his aid, Mark managed to get the young boy and their dog Molly to safety, but was tragically unable to fight against the river’s rapids and was swept from safety.
Mark’s heartbroken sister Debbie opened up about the devastating incident, saying: “Mark had one of the lads on his shoulder and he passed him to the guy who came to help. Then he pushed the dog towards the shore, as if to help her out, but then he disappeared under the water.”
Mark’s body was recovered from the river on the 29th of December.
Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this very difficult time.
