Family and authorities search for Patrolman Aaron Langab Blas, 25, a resident of Luna town, Apayao, who went missing during a training exercise near Philex Mines in Benguet on July 14. (Photo courtesy of the Apayao provincial government)

By Philippine Daily Inquirer News Correspondent Villamor Visaya Jr.

TUGUEGARAO CITY — A 25-year-old policeman from Luna town, Apayao, has been declared missing, a week after he was last contacted on July 14, the provincial government said in a statement.

Patrolman Aaron Langab Blas, 25, of San Gregorio, Luna, Apayao, went missing while undergoing training under the Basic Internal Security Operations Course (BISOC).

He is assigned to the First Provincial Mobile Force Company of Apayao.

He was last seen at around 5:30 p.m. in the Zigzag area near Dam 2, Philex Mines, Ampucao, Itogon, Benguet, during a land navigation activity that is part of the training course.

“There is a possibility he may have fallen into a manhole inside the Philex Mines compound,” the provincial government added.

“His family is appealing to all miners and workers within the area to help in the search efforts,” it said.

Villagers who may have seen him or have any information about his whereabouts are urged to contact his relatives or friends through the mobile numbers 0977 636 2197 or 0945 135 5938.