Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte — December 31, 2025
A recreational trip turned tragic off the coast of Burgos town in Siargao after a kayak carrying three individuals capsized amid strong sea currents and heavy waves on December 30, 2025, leaving one young man still missing.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) – Siargao Station reported that the victims, identified as Mr. Eisen Ezecquiel B. Carpio, Mr. Eliseo G. Carpio Jr., and 19-year-old Mr. Eisner Seimone B. Carpio, were navigating a kayak near the vicinity waters of Pasikon Beach, Barangay Baybay, Burgos when they were swept toward a rocky cliff area around 12:15 p.m.
Strong winds, coupled with powerful waves, caused their small vessel to overturn. Responding Coast Guard personnel immediately launched a search and rescue operation, successfully retrieving two of the victims. However, the youngest, Eisner Seimone Carpio — a resident of Malolos, Bulacan — remains missing.
Authorities have issued a Notice to All Mariners advising ships and watercraft in surrounding areas to maintain heightened alertness and assist in locating the missing teen. Any sightings or relevant information must be reported promptly to the nearest Coast Guard unit, or directly to PCG Siargao through their operations hotline: 0906-381-4569.
The Coast Guard urged the public and maritime community to help in the broad dissemination of the alert, emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts in ensuring a swift and safe outcome.
As search operations continue, the PCG reminds all coastal visitors and water sports enthusiasts to strictly observe safety guidelines, particularly during unfavorable sea conditions.