A 42-year-old farmer died while his companion was injured severely after an abandoned illegal mining tunnel in Barangay Licabang, Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur collapsed over the weekend.

Based on investigation, the farmer was seen entering the tunnel allegedly to extract copper minerals believed to contain gold known locally as “karoko” around 6:12 p.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025.

Police said the tunnel was located at a hilly area approximately 750 meters above sea level.

A few minutes later, a loud sound was heard believed to have been caused by the collapse of a pillar inside the tunnel.

The victims were found trapped inside the tunnel and were rescued by residents.

The farmer was declared dead on arrival at the hospital while his companion, believed to be an illegal miner, sustained serious injuries from falling rocks and minerals.

According to the local government, the abandoned tunnel has been closed due to illegal mining activities.

The local government added that a cease and desist order had already been issued, and residents were warned repeatedly.

“The site has been fully closed, with no ongoing mining operations, and access remains limited due to damaged roads and hazardous conditions, especially during heavy rains,” the local government said in a Facebook post.

However, despite warnings, some individuals reportedly entered the closed area, placing themselves at risk.

“The LGU extends its deepest sympathy to the bereaved family and reiterates its firm implementation of the Cease and Desist Order,” the local government added.

(With reports from Efren Mamac, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao)