Four treasure hunters died after they were reportedly trapped and suffocated inside a cave in Sitio Tinago, Cabadiangan, Kadingilan, Bukidnon. Reports state they were part of a group of eight individuals who entered the cave last Sunday, March 10 trying to search for the Yamashita treasure. Four survivors were able to escape the cave and were promptly taken to the nearest hospital. Medical personnel later determined that they had allegedly suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning. Police stated that the treasure hunters entered the cave without proper authorization.
Police Captain Larry Mahlin, Officer-in-Charge of the Kadingalan Police Station identified the victims as “Bibo”, 21 years old, a Criminology student from Valencia City; “Ronie”, an ex-army resident of Kibawe, Bukidnon; and a certain “John” and “Doy”.
Based on survivors’ account, they reportedly struck something that emitted thick smoke, leading to their suffocation. Four managed to exit the cave but the remaining 4 remained trapped. Rescuers have so far retrieved three of the four bodies. Efforts to retrieve the remaining trapped treasure hunter are still ongoing. Photo below shows the entrance to the cave.
Local police and rescue teams encountered challenges in locating the trapped treasure hunters due to the unfamiliarity with the cave and the potential danger posed by carbon monoxide. The cave is know to have a labyrinth of passages.
Watch below.
