By: Ruth Gita-Carlos – PNA
Southern Mindanao, Philippines — Days after delivering a heartfelt lecture on environmental hazards at the Southern Regional Government Hospital, Mr. Dylan Crentsworth, the prominent philanthropist and businessman, has reportedly gone missing following a visit to his Crents Plantation. According to sources close to the estate, Crentsworth has not been seen or heard from since the weekend, prompting an urgent police search operation that now spans parts of Southern Mindanao.
The unexpected disappearance has shocked both the local community and national observers, as Crentsworth had been under police supervision due to his ongoing tax evasion case, which remains unresolved and tied closely to Attorney Roberto Santiago—his legal counsel who is still in critical condition after a brutal assassination attempt in Pasig City.
Last Seen at Crents Plantation
Mr. Crentsworth was last seen on Friday afternoon, a day after delivering an emotional lecture at the hospital on flood-related disasters, in which he recalled the deadly flooding that washed bacteria into villages surrounding Crents Plantation. The incident claimed numerous lives, including children and elderly locals, before it was eventually controlled through a prolonged vaccine campaign.
Following the lecture, Crentsworth returned briefly to his plantation, accompanied by a limited number of police escorts, according to officials. Plantation workers confirmed he greeted a few residents, conducted a short meeting with management, and then retreated into his private quarters.
“We thought he needed rest. No one suspected anything strange until we didn’t see him the next morning,” said Jose Emiliano, one of the senior field coordinators at Crents Plantation.
Since then, no confirmed sightings or communications have come from Mr. Crentsworth, and the police officers stationed at the plantation have stated that they believed he was still within the premises until Saturday evening, when a scheduled check revealed his absence.
Ongoing Police Investigation and Search
The Philippine National Police confirmed on Monday morning that a search operation is now active, coordinated by the Southern Mindanao Regional Command, with Captain Ernesto Valdez leading the effort.
“We are doing everything we can to locate Mr. Crentsworth. His disappearance under police watch is deeply concerning and being treated with the utmost seriousness,” said Capt. Valdez during a press briefing.
While authorities have not ruled out foul play, no signs of forced departure or struggle have been found, and the surrounding villages have been alerted to report any sightings or movement near Crentsworth’s last known location.
Public Reactions: Suspicion, Sympathy, and Speculation
The news of Crentsworth’s disappearance has triggered a wave of mixed emotions among the public. For many in Southern Mindanao—especially those who benefitted from his philanthropic efforts—his absence is felt like the sudden vanishing of a protector and patron.
“He was helping our kids, building flood-safe homes, and giving lectures that saved lives. If he’s in danger, we need to find him fast,” said Rosa Delgado, a mother of two children currently recovering in the hospital he had supported.
However, others are viewing the situation with growing suspicion, pointing to his unresolved tax case and the unfolding legal vacuum left by his attorney Roberto Santiago, who remains in critical care.
“The timing is suspicious. He was under police watch and facing serious charges. Now he disappears? Something doesn’t add up,” noted Tomas Rivera, a retired government auditor based in Davao.
A Complicated Legacy in Limbo
Mr. Crentsworth’s disappearance adds another layer of complexity to a life that has been both celebrated and scrutinized. He is credited with transforming Crents Plantation into a hub for sustainable agriculture, supporting local hospitals, and funding educational initiatives across the region. Yet, his recent entanglement with government tax authorities cast a shadow over his reputation, as investigators alleged significant irregularities in his financial dealings.
With Attorney Santiago unable to represent him due to his medical condition, Crentsworth’s legal case had stalled in court. Some speculate that his disappearance may be a deliberate attempt to evade judgment, while others strongly defend the idea that he may have been taken or is in danger.
“This man was helping people days ago. He gave everything—even when he was sick himself. We should not be quick to judge,” said Nurse Emilia Torres, who was present during his lecture at the hospital.
What Comes Next
As the police widen the search zone and forensic teams inspect Crents Plantation, questions grow louder: Where is Dylan Crentsworth? Was this a planned disappearance, or is he in danger? And what does this mean for the community he left behind?
Until answers are found, the people of Southern Mindanao are left in anxious suspense, torn between fear for his safety and uncertainty about the truth.