Three poultry farm workers died after they allegedly suffocated while inside a septic tank of a farm in Barangay Sampatulog, Alubijid, Misamis Oriental on Tuesday, December 30, 2025.

The fatalities were a 26-year-old farm manager and a resident of Sumilao, Bukidnon; and a 43-year-old farm worker and his 16-year-old son, both residents of Barangay Sampatulog.

Based on investigation, the farm manager reportedly dropped a pair of pliers accidentally into the septic tank while waiting for the wastewater level to subside.

He reportedly entered the tank to retrieve the tool but became dizzy allegedly due to the presence of toxic gases or lack of oxygen inside the confined space, causing him to collapse and become submerged in wastewater.

The 43-year-old worker also entered the tank to rescue the farm manager and provide first aid. However, he was also overcome by the hazardous conditions and collapsed inside the tank.

Later, the worker’s son jumped into the septic tank to help his father but also suffocated.

Other farm workers opted to break the concrete wall of the septic tank to retrieve the three and sought medical assistance immediately.

The three victims were declared dead on arrival at the hospital.