Chainsaw Operator Fatally Injured by Falling Branch in Oslob Tree-Cutting Incident
In a tragic workplace accident, a chainsaw operator lost his life after being struck by a falling tree branch during a tree-cutting operation in Oslob, Cebu. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Monday, January 26, 2026, in Purok Can-umay, Barangay Tumalog, Oslob City, casting a somber light on the dangers faced by forestry workers.
Details of the Fatal Mishap
The victim has been identified as Limber John Baoy Albaran, a 33-year-old unmarried resident of Barangay Lengigon, Argao City. According to Police Major Alejandro Batobalonos, chief of the Oslob Police Station, who spoke with Superbalita Cebu, Albaran was hired to cut down the tree when the accident unfolded. Authorities were notified of the incident only after receiving reports that a branch had fallen, leading to the fatal injury.
The large branch that fell is described as having pierced the victim's head with significant force, resulting in immediate and severe trauma that proved fatal. It was noted that Albaran had tied a rope to the sizable branch while he was in the process of cutting the tree, a common practice in such operations to control the fall, but this precaution failed to prevent the tragic outcome.
Emergency Response and Aftermath
Following the accident, personnel from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) in Oslob swiftly responded to the scene. They transported Albaran to a nearby hospital in an effort to save his life. However, despite their prompt actions, medical assistance was unable to revive him, and he was pronounced dead upon arrival.
This incident underscores the inherent risks associated with tree-cutting and forestry work, particularly in rural areas like Oslob, where such operations are often conducted with minimal safety oversight. It serves as a stark reminder of the need for enhanced safety protocols and training for workers engaged in hazardous activities.
Local authorities are likely to review the circumstances surrounding the accident to prevent similar occurrences in the future, as communities mourn the loss of a young worker in this preventable tragedy.
