By I. Inojales | 11:37 AM March 04, 2026
UBAY, Bohol — Two Grade 3 pupils lost their lives after drowning in an irrigation canal in Barangay Boyles, Ubay town, on Tuesday morning, March 3, 2026.
The victims, aged 9 and 10, were students of Governor Boyles Elementary School.
According to the Ubay Police Station, the children were discovered lifeless at around 10 a.m., although the incident was officially reported to authorities later in the afternoon at approximately 5 p.m.
Police investigation showed that the pupils had been dismissed early from school after their teacher went on sick leave, leading to the suspension of classes. Instead of heading straight home, the two children reportedly decided to swim in a canal operated by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).
Due to the canal’s depth and strong current, the children were allegedly swept away and drowned. Their bodies were later recovered about 300 meters from where they had reportedly entered the water.
Local authorities extended their condolences to the families and urged parents to remain vigilant and ensure that children are kept away from hazardous areas such as irrigation canals, especially without adult supervision.
