American Vlogger Abducted in Philippines Presumed Dead, Police Say

An American man, Elliot Eastman, who was abducted in the Philippines, is now presumed dead according to police reports. The Philippines News Agency has cited a witness claiming that Eastman was shot during a struggle with his captors.

Eastman, a resident of Vermont, was forcibly taken on October 17 near his home in Sibuco, located on the island of Mindanao. He had been living there with his wife and frequently shared videos about his life on YouTube.

Lt. Col. Ramoncelio Sawan, a regional police spokesman, addressed the media on Thursday, informing them of the witness’s account. The witness reported that Eastman was shot twice during his abduction as the kidnappers forcibly transported him away from the scene.

“We are constrained to believe that he has died. All of the information that we have points to that,” Sawan stated.

Authorities are currently attempting to verify the details provided by the witness. However, the search for Eastman’s body continues, which, according to the witness, was discarded overboard.

Sawan assured the public that they are committed to bringing the individuals responsible for his abduction to justice and emphasized the importance of safeguarding foreigners residing in the area.

In their efforts to locate Eastman, police have made several arrests related to the case. Reports indicate that three suspects were killed in a gunfight with law enforcement last month.

Sibuco is situated in the western region of Mindanao, the second largest island in the Philippines, known for its history of insurgency and the presence of various Islamist militant groups. Despite the tense environment, police have noted that this particular case does not seem to be connected to Muslim rebel factions.

The U.S. State Department has urged its citizens to reconsider traveling to Mindanao, highlighting the ongoing risks of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping in the region.