A man died after being strangled by a large python on top of a dike in Barangay Bolilao, Mandurriao district, Iloilo police said.
The victim was identified as Julius Perez. Authorities said the python, estimated to be about 3 meters long, wrapped itself tightly around Perez’s neck during the incident. A video recorded during the attack later circulated online, showing the snake already coiled around the victim.
According to the Iloilo City Police, Perez was attending a wake in the area before the incident happened. While on top of the dike near the wake site, he encountered the large python, which then attacked him.
Police said several residents rushed to help after noticing the incident. Witnesses attempted to stop the snake by cutting off its head in an effort to release its grip on the victim. Despite the effort, the python had already constricted Perez’s neck, and he was later declared dead at the scene.
Authorities did not immediately provide details on where the snake came from or how long it had been in the area before the incident. There was also no information on whether the python had been previously seen or reported by residents prior to the attack.
The incident sparked concern among people in the community, particularly those living near open fields, dikes, and waterways where large snakes may be present. Police advised residents to remain cautious and to report sightings of large or dangerous wildlife to authorities immediately.
The Iloilo City Police said the incident remains under investigation.
