Two people died while three others are still believed to be trapped inside a tunnel, as of this writing, during an alleged treasure hunting activity in Barangay Upper Licanan, Panabo City, Davao del Norte.

According to the Panabo City Information Office, the initial search and rescue operation has shifted to the retrieval phase due to the condition of the victims and the high risks posed by the confined space.

Based on data, two victims have already been retrieved – a 59-year-old resident of Tagum City, who was recovered on April 23, 2026, and another 59-year-old individual, who was recovered on Friday, April 24.

Three other victims – 39, 75, and 63 years old– are still believed to be trapped inside the tunnel, as of this writing.

Responders said harmful gases such as ammonia and carbon monoxide were detected in the tunnel, based on readings from an air monitoring device.

Because of this, authorities consider the area extremely hazardous and needs strict safety protocols to protect the members of the retrieval team.

However, authorities recommended the termination of the retrieval operation on Saturday, April 25, 2026, due to “high hazard” condition.

Authorities added that the hole created for the alleged treasure hunting activity reached a depth of around 270 feet.

The local government and other agencies have already met with the families of the victims