Tragic Cave Incident: Man Loses Life While Rescuing Sister in Bohol

In a heartbreaking incident, a 28-year-old man lost his life while attempting to rescue his younger sister trapped inside Tubang Cave and Spring in Barangay Danicop, Antequera, Bohol, on the evening of June 28, 2024.

This tragedy was confirmed by Antequera Councilor ‘Sniper’ Johnny Coquilla during an interview with DYSS Super Radyo GMA.

The Incident

Around 6 p.m., three of Coquilla’s Arnis players—a 15-year-old girl, a 16-year-old boy, and an 18-year-old boy—decided to bathe in the spring without his permission. While bathing, they ventured into the cave within the spring. Suddenly, the water level inside the cave rose, trapping them. Additionally, their submersible flashlight fell into the water, worsening their predicament.

One of the children's fathers called Coquilla, requesting a rescue. “One of the fathers called me asking for help because they were having trouble getting out. I asked why they couldn’t get out since they were just at the farm, but it turns out they were bathing in Tubang,” Coquilla explained.

The Rescue Effort

At around 6:30 p.m., rescuers arrived. However, members of the Bureau of Fire Protection and Tarsier Bohol were hesitant to enter the cave due to their unfamiliarity with its terrain. They sought assistance from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Fortunately, the two boys managed to escape the cave, although one collapsed after getting out. The 15-year-old girl struggled to escape because she had to swim.

“Those who survived first said the distance was about three meters. You had to slide at a 10-degree angle and then climb up a 90-degree angle,” Coquilla added.

Larry Cruz's Heroic Attempt

Larry Cruz, the 28-year-old brother of the trapped girl, volunteered to rescue her, stating that he knew the cave's terrain well. After three attempts, Cruz reached his sister, but she had trouble breathing and went back inside the cave for air. Tragically, Cruz drowned while trying to help her.

Eventually, rescuers managed to pull out the 15-year-old girl, but Cruz was already lifeless when found. The three survivors are now recovering in a hospital.

Aftermath and Recommendations

Councilor Coquilla mentioned that he would recommend closing the spring to minors to prevent similar incidents in the future. This was the first such incident at the site, which also serves as a water source for the town. The Tubang Cave and Spring are temporarily closed to the public.

This tragic event highlights the dangers of natural sites and the heroic lengths individuals go to save their loved ones. Larry Cruz’s bravery and sacrifice will be remembered as a poignant reminder of the risks involved in rescue attempts and the importance of safety precautions in potentially hazardous environments.