Sepak Takraw Player’s Life Cut Short After Dinner Turns Into Tragedy
SEPAK TAKRAW – A young sepak takraw player’s dream ended unimaginably after a sudden choking incident.
An 11-year-old sepak takraw player tragically lost his life after choking on food while staying at a billeting quarters in Mac-Ale Memorial Elementary School in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
According to reports, the young athlete was having dinner when the incident occurred. Witnesses said he suddenly choked, prompting immediate concern from those around him. A nurse who was present quickly attempted to assist the child by performing manual clearing and the Heimlich maneuver. Despite these urgent efforts, the obstruction could not be removed.
Due to the severity of his condition, it was decided that the child needed to be rushed to the nearest hospital. However, the attending physician at the first hospital revealed that approximately 40 minutes had already passed before the patient arrived at their facility.
Upon arrival at the emergency room, medical personnel immediately conducted cardiac monitoring and administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The child was also given medication to support heart function as his condition rapidly deteriorated. As his oxygen levels dropped significantly, doctors proceeded with intubation in an attempt to stabilize his breathing.
After providing initial treatment, the medical staff determined that the child required more advanced care. Plans were made to transfer him to a larger hospital where he could be placed on a mechanical ventilator and admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).
Unfortunately, due to his critical condition and the development of brain damage, the young athlete was declared dead on arrival at the receiving hospital.
The school nurse later confirmed that the cause of death was acute respiratory failure due to aspiration pneumonia.
The heartbreaking incident has cast a shadow over what should have been an exciting time for the young player, who was set to compete in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Athletic Association (BARMMAA) 2026. His untimely passing has left family, teammates, and the community grieving the loss of a promising athlete whose life was cut tragically short.
READ ALSO: Grade 6 Student Choked by Classmate Inside Classroom in AntiqueÂ