Three senior scouts lost their lives, and 10 others were hospitalized after being electrocuted at a Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) campsite in Mount Abong-Abong, Barangay Pasonanca, Zamboanga City.
The fatalities were identified as Geoffree Atilano, 17, Kevin Emmanuel Iguid, 18, and Alvien Gaspar, 22, residents of Barangays Sta. Catalina, Pasonanca, and Tetuan, respectively.
A statement from the BSP Zamboanga City Council paid tribute to the fallen scouts, commending their dedication and service to the scouting community.
The incident also affected 10 others, including children aged 9, 11, and 12, who are currently in stable condition under medical observation.
According to the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the accident occurred while the scouts were relocating a tent that inadvertently came into contact with a live electrical wire.
The tragedy happened just before the opening of the 2024 citywide BSP Jamborette, which was set to include activities for Kid and Cub Scouts but has now been canceled.
BSP Zamboanga City Council Chairperson Atty. Jose Rizalino Ortega expressed deep condolences, taking full responsibility for the incident and committing to support the grieving families.
The council vowed to honor the legacy of the young scouts and stand by the affected families during this challenging time.
