VERUELA, Agusan del Sur — A 15-year-old boy remains missing after reportedly diving into swollen floodwaters from a bridge in Barangay Binongan on Friday, February 20, 2026, in an incident that authorities and witnesses say should serve as a serious warning to content creators and the public about the dangers of risky stunts during severe weather.
The missing minor was identified as Nico Abreño, who had been with three friends swimming near Binongan Creek amid heavy flooding that had affected parts of the municipality. According to witnesses, the group had been using a bridge in Barangay Binongan as a platform for diving into the flood-swollen water.
In an interview with local media, witness Ailyn Rosales said she tried to stop the teenager moments before he jumped.
Rosales recalled that the minor appeared determined to record a video of himself diving into the floodwaters as online content. Despite repeated warnings about the strong current and dangerous conditions, the teenager proceeded with the dive.
Shortly after jumping, the situation quickly turned critical.
Another companion, Aldren Rosales, said they did not initially expect the water current to be that strong. Moments after entering the water, the minor reportedly struggled to stay afloat as he was caught in swirling flood currents at the center of the creek.
Friends attempted to help him, but the force of the current made it impossible to reach him in time.
“He was pulled away by the current and suddenly disappeared from sight,” Aldren said, recalling the frightening moments that unfolded in the flooded creek.
Witnesses said the incident happened while many residents had gathered near the area due to the rising floodwaters brought by continuous rains.
As of the latest report, search and rescue operations were ongoing. Local responders and community members continued scouring sections of Binongan Creek in hopes of locating the missing teenager, though the strong current and high water level have made the operation difficult.
Authorities have yet to release further updates while the search continues.
The incident has sparked concern among residents and officials, particularly over the growing trend of young people performing dangerous acts for social media content without fully understanding the risks involved—especially during extreme weather conditions.
Local authorities and community leaders are now urging the public, especially minors and aspiring content creators, to avoid attempting risky stunts in hazardous environments such as flooded rivers and creeks. Floodwaters often conceal strong currents, deep sections, debris, and underwater hazards that can quickly turn a seemingly harmless activity into a life-threatening situation.
Rescuers emphasized that swimming in floodwaters is extremely dangerous, as the depth and conditions beneath the surface are often unpredictable.
As the search for the missing teenager continues, the incident stands as a painful reminder that a few seconds of content can carry consequences far more serious than many expect.