The five miners were found dead in a tunnel in Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya on Tuesday, June 25. According to reports, Russel Tumapang entered the tunnel to work when he discovered his colleagues dead.
The victims were identified as Lipihon Ayudan, Joval Bantiyan, Alfred Bilibli, Florencio Indopia, and Daniel Segundo. Tumapang immediately reported the incident to Barangay Chairman John Babliing, who asked the police for help.
According to the investigation by the authorities, the miners may have suffocated due to lack of oxygen inside the tunnel.
The area is known for small-scale mining activities, so there are often occupational hazards. At present, the investigation is ongoing to learn the full details of the incident.
Miners and operators are reminded to ensure that there are adequate safety measures in these types of work to avoid tragedy.
