Two 11-year-old boys died after a fruit-picking pole touched a live electrical wire while gathering santol fruits.
The victims, identified as Alex Palmes and Clyde Glenn Tercio, lived in Barangay Luma, Kiamba, and attended the same school.
They reportedly collected santol fruits for their school’s Nutrition Month culmination activity before the tragic accident unexpectedly claimed their young lives.
Initial reports revealed that Alex first suffered electrocution after the improvised fruit picker accidentally contacted an overhead energized power line nearby.
Clyde immediately rushed toward his best friend and attempted a rescue, but the same electrical current struck him fatally.
Responders immediately transported both children to a nearby hospital, but attending physicians declared them dead upon arrival despite emergency efforts.
The heartbreaking incident left relatives, classmates, teachers, and residents grieving the sudden loss of two young boys remembered for their friendship and kindness.
Their remains now lie in state at their respective family homes as loved ones continue offering prayers and final respects.
Local officials, including Mayor James Basquinez Reganit, visited the bereaved families, expressed condolences, and extended assistance following the devastating tragedy affecting the community.
Authorities reminded parents, students, and residents to avoid harvesting fruits near overhead power lines using long conductive tools that could trigger deadly electrocution.
Officials also encouraged communities to prioritize safety and seek assistance whenever fruit-bearing trees grow dangerously close to electrical infrastructure.
The tragedy serves as a painful reminder that simple daily activities can quickly become fatal without proper safety precautions.
