A rubber tapper was killed in an explosion at MARBEDCO Rubber Farm in Sumisip, Basilan, on October 23, 2025. Police and military units are investigating the blast’s cause as authorities secure the site.-PNP Photo
ZAMBOANGA CITY (October 24)— A tragic explosion rocked a rubber farm in Barangay Mangal, Sumisip, Basilan, early Thursday morning, October 23, 2025, killing one worker and prompting a full-scale investigation by authorities.
According to reports from the Sumisip Municipal Police Station (MPS), the blast occurred at around 7:30 a.m. at the MARBEDCO Rubber Farm, located roughly one kilometer from Mangal Highway. The incident claimed the life of John Roy Alvarez, a veteran rubber tapper who had worked for the company for about eight years.
Police said they were alerted to the explosion by Barangay Chairman Muhaimin Undug, who immediately coordinated with law enforcement and emergency responders. A joint team from the Sumisip MPS, led by Police Captain Jakaria J. Muin, and elements of the 32nd Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army, rushed to the scene to secure the area and assist in the rescue.
Alvarez sustained severe injuries from the blast and was transported to the Basilan General Hospital in Isabela City, where he was later declared dead.
Mr. Jonas Dela Torre, Chairman of MARBEDCO, described Alvarez as a hardworking and well-respected employee, saying his death was a huge loss to the company and community.
Authorities have yet to determine the source and motive of the explosion. The Police Explosives and Canine Unit (PECU)-Basilan has been deployed to conduct a post-blast investigation, while the area remains under tight security as experts gather evidence.
Investigators are not ruling out any possibilities, including accidental causes or deliberate foul play. The Sumisip MPS and the 32nd Infantry Battalion (Delta Company) are jointly working to identify those responsible and ensure the safety of workers in the area.
The incident has sparked concern among local residents, who are calling for stricter safety and security measures in the province’s agricultural zones.
