American man kidnapped in southern Philippines after resisting gunmen

An American man, identified as Elliot Onil Eastman, was reportedly kidnapped in Sibuco, a coastal town in the southern Philippines. He was shot in the leg while resisting and taken away by armed men in a speedboat. Philippine police have launched a search for Eastman and the suspects, who were dressed in black and claimed to be police officers. Authorities are asking the public for any information that could assist in the investigation. The incident raises concerns about a resurgence of kidnappings in the region, which has a history of such crimes, particularly by armed groups. However, military efforts have significantly weakened these groups in recent years.