Teenager's Arm Trapped in Cebu Manhole for Four Hours

Cebu City Teenager Trapped in Manhole for Hours A 15-year-old boy in Cebu City, Philippines, experienced a terrifying ordeal on June 5, 2025, when his arm became trapped in a manhole cover while attempting to retrieve coins. The incident, which lasted over four hours, required the intervention of emergency responders and highlighted the dangers of scavenging in urban drains. "His arm was stuck fast," explained Eric James Formentera, one of the rescuers on the scene. "We tried power cutters and hydraulic tools, but it was very difficult to remove the cover without hurting him." The rescue operation involved several firefighters and emergency personnel. The video shows the tense moments as they carefully worked to free the teenager. A bystander, Noli Cabanes, commented, "I've seen people pick up coins from drains before, but I never thought it could be so dangerous." After a prolonged effort, the teenager was freed and taken to the hospital for treatment. Authorities subsequently secured the manhole with stones to prevent similar incidents in the future. The event serves as a reminder of the hidden dangers lurking in seemingly ordinary urban environments.