A 15-year-old boy was rescued Thursday morning after getting his right arm stuck in a manhole cover while searching for coins in Barangay Sto. Niño, Cebu City.
Authorities identified the boy as Joseph, a resident of the same barangay. The incident happened around 5 a.m. along Plaridel Street.
In an interview with Brigada News FM Cebu, a companion of the victim said they were looking for coins that had fallen into the drainage when the accident happened. Joseph reportedly forced his arm through the narrow gap of the metal grill, despite its tight fit.
His companion added that this coin-searching activity has become their means of livelihood.
Members of the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) Special Rescue Squad and the Bureau of Fire Protection worked together to free the teen. Specialized extrication equipment was used, including a battery-operated spreader, a hydraulic cutter, and a manual metal saw.
At exactly 9:51 a.m., rescuers successfully cut through the metal and freed Joseph’s arm. He was immediately taken to the nearest hospital for medical attention.
The incident raised concerns about urban safety and the risks faced by street-dwelling youth trying to earn a living.
