3 Boy Scout masters die, 11 hurt in jamboree electrocution accident

DAVAO CITY — The 2024 Council Scout Jamboree at Climaco Freedom Park in Abong-Abong, Pasonanca, came to a halt on Thursday, December 12, as a devastating accident resulted in the loss of three senior Boy Scout leaders and left 11 others injured.

Mayor John Dalipe made the difficult decision to cancel the four-day event, which was originally slated to run from December 12 to 15, in order to facilitate a comprehensive investigation by the police and the Critical Incident Management Task Group, comprised of city government agencies and law enforcement.

City Police Officer-in-Charge, Director Col. Kimberly Molitas, confirmed the establishment of the task group to conduct a thorough inquiry into all aspects of the incident. “We are committed to examining every detail to determine any possible liabilities of all parties involved,” she stated.

The tragic accident unfolded early on Thursday morning when the victims inadvertently struck a live wire belonging to the Zamboanga City Electric Cooperative while relocating a tent with metal frames.

The deceased individuals have been identified as Geofree Atillano, Emmann Iquid, and Alvien Gaspar.

As per reports from the Department of Education Region 9 and the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), three injured scouts remain in critical condition.

Dalipe has allocated city resources to extend comprehensive assistance, covering burial expenses for the deceased and medical support for the injured. “Our priority is to aid the families affected by this tragedy in every way possible,” he affirmed in a released statement.

The event, organized by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) Zamboanga City Council, was anticipated to welcome around 2,000 participants from various parts of the city.

However, the incident has emphasized critical concerns regarding safety protocols and the maintenance of the campsite’s electrical infrastructure.

Key figures such as education officials Butch Alejabo and Atty. Jay-Ar Ortega committed to conducting a transparent investigation aimed at preventing similar mishaps in the future.

The local government, along with DepEd and other pertinent agencies, remains actively engaged in supporting the affected families during this challenging period.