Search for 3 miners ends in tragedy in Nueva Vizcaya
In a heartbreaking conclusion to the search for 3 miners trapped in a tunnel in Sitio Capitol, Runruno, Quezon, Nueva Vizcaya, rescuers recovered three bodies after days of intense efforts. The death toll from the mining accident has now climbed to five, with a rescuer succumbing to injuries suffered during the retrieval operation.
The latest victim, Johnny Ayudan, 38, lost his life early Thursday at the Region 2 Trauma and Medical Center. Johnny was among the brave rescuers who descended a 700-meter-deep tunnel to retrieve bodies and help survivors trapped in the oxygen-starved shaft. He was also the younger brother of Lapihon Ayudan, a miner who perished in the same incident.
Details of the mining tragedy and rescue efforts
The incident unfolded on June 23 when toxic gases and a lack of oxygen inside the tunnel claimed the lives of four individuals: miners Daniel Segundo, 47; Florencio Indopia, 63; Lapihon Ayudan, 56; and rescuer John Philip Guinihid. These men were trapped deep underground in hazardous conditions. Following the accident, rescuers rushed to retrieve the victims and save two survivors.
Local authorities reported that Johnny Ayudan had recently received P15,000 in medical assistance from government agencies just two days before his passing. His remains are to be laid to rest in Barangay Communal, Solano, Nueva Vizcaya.
Community and government response
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) extended aid to the victims’ families, releasing P50,000 in cash plus an additional P20,000 in financial support to each of the four families initially reported deceased. Moreover, 68 miner-rescuers who risked their lives during the perilous retrieval received P3,000 each as recognition for their courage, according to the village chief of Runruno.
The local government praised these rescuers for their bravery and heroism in facing toxic gas and scarce oxygen to save lives. Mining companies such as FCF Minerals, OceanaGold, and Lepanto Consolidated Mining Company also contributed personnel and equipment to the multi-day recovery operation, which ended around midnight on June 26. Victims were recovered from depths between 300 and 700 meters underground.
Remembering the fallen and moving forward
Two of the deceased were buried on June 28, with another interred on July 2. One miner’s body was returned to his home in Barangay Cudog, Lagawe, Ifugao.
This tragedy highlights the dangers faced by small-scale miners and rescuers alike. The community mourns their loss while honoring the sacrifices made during the search for 3 miners. As investigations and safety measures continue, authorities urge vigilance to prevent similar incidents.
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