Arakan: A 10-year-old boy lost his life instantly while two others sustained injuries following the explosion of an unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Barangay Ganatan, Arakan, North Cotabato, at approximately 10:58 a.m. on June 22, 2026.

According to Philippines News Agency, Col. Ramel Hojilla, the North Cotabato police director, identified the deceased as a boy referred to as "Matt," aged 10. The injured individuals, identified as "Jim," 17, and "Jil," 8, are residents of Barangay Ganatan and are currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital in the town center of Arakan.

The initial investigation revealed that the children were wading and bathing in a creek when the explosion occurred. Col. Hojilla informed DXND Radyo Bida Kidapawan that it appeared one of the children had discovered the UXO and reportedly struck it against a rock, causing the explosion.

Personnel from the 72nd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, who were conducting patrol operations in the vicinity, promptly responded to the incident and transported the victims to the hospital. Unfortunately, one of the children was pronounced dead upon arrival.

The Provincial Explosive Ordnance Disposal and K9 Unit is actively conducting a post-blast investigation to gather more details regarding the.