14-year-old boy killed in boxing match during village fiesta in Davao Norte

TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, Philippines—A 14-year-old boy died after getting knocked out in a boxing match during a town fiesta in San Isidro, Davao del Norte on Thursday, officials on Friday said.

Junrey Amar succumbed to apparent head injuries following the fight in remote Sawata village past 7 p.m., said Mayor Arnel Sitoy.

“We’re saddened by this unfortunate accident…The local government will be extending financial assistance to the victim’s family,” Sitoy said in a radio interview.

The victim reportedly collapsed on the canvas unconscious, with officials promptly stopping the match.

Organizers rushed the teenager to Kapalong District Hospital, but attending physicians declared him dead upon arrival.

Sitoy said he would order an investigation into the death of the boy. He said the event was initiated by the village as part of the activities during the town fiesta celebration.

It was not immediately known if the victim and his opponent were wearing protective headgears during the ill-fated match.