Sibuco, Philippines – Elliot Eastman, a 26-year-old American vlogger from Vermont, is believed to have been killed by his kidnappers after being abducted from his home in the coastal town of Sibuco, Mindanao, on October 17. This conclusion was based on statements from suspects in custody, according to Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson, Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo.
“They confirmed that he is dead. Eastman is dead. He was shot in the thigh and stomach during the abduction,” Fajardo said in a press briefing on Thursday.
Eastman, who had been residing in the Philippines since May, was forcibly taken by men posing as police officers. Witnesses reported that he was dragged onto a motorboat after resisting his captors. The PNP disclosed that four suspects had been arrested, while four others remain at large.
Testimony Points to Death During Abduction
According to Lt. Col. Ramoncelio Sawan, a relative of one of the suspects revealed that Eastman succumbed to his injuries while being transported by his abductors. The suspects reportedly disposed of his body at sea. This account was corroborated by another suspect, whose sworn statement has been submitted to prosecutors.
Although no remains have been recovered, authorities stated that evidence strongly suggests Eastman is dead. “We are constrained to believe that he has died. All of the information that we have points to that,” said Sawan. However, he noted that the investigation remains open until conclusive evidence is found.
Background on the Abduction
Eastman, who documented his life in the Philippines on YouTube, had returned to Sibuco to attend his wife’s graduation when the kidnapping occurred. He was known for showcasing daily life in the remote town, where he was regarded as the first foreigner to permanently reside there. Police believe the kidnappers targeted him after noticing his presence in the area.
The suspects, identified as local criminals, are not believed to be affiliated with organized militant groups such as the Abu Sayyaf, which has a history of ransom kidnappings in Mindanao.
Ongoing Investigation
The PNP continues to work with U.S. authorities and Eastman’s family. The U.S. Embassy in Manila confirmed its cooperation with local law enforcement but declined further comment due to privacy considerations.
This case highlights the persistent security challenges in the southern Philippines, a region plagued by poverty, insurgency, and lawlessness. Despite peace agreements and military offensives against extremist groups, sporadic violence and criminal activities persist.
A Digital Legacy
On his YouTube channel, Eastman often spoke about his adventures and life in Sibuco. In one video, he described finding “the love of my life deep in the mountains” and expressed his enthusiasm for exploring the area. His content provided followers a unique glimpse into the remote and underserved community.
The kidnapping and presumed death of Eastman serve as a stark reminder of the risks foreign nationals face in volatile regions, even as they seek to connect with and document life in unfamiliar places.