Australian Tourist Jennifer Keenan Seriously Injured in Philippines Bridge Collapse

Jennifer Keenan, a 32-year-ancient woman from Queensland, Australia, suffered severe injuries after a makeshift footbridge collapsed during an island-hopping tour in Coron, Palawan, Philippines on February 15, 2026. The incident occurred as Keenan was returning from a village tour with a small group of travelers.

The Incident

Keenan was walking across a platform leading to a bridge connecting the shore to the tour vessel when the structure unexpectedly gave way. She was thrown into the water and became pinned between large, sharp concrete blocks according to reports. The collapse involved both cement blocks and timber planks.

Rescue and Initial Medical Care

Fellow tourists rushed to help free Keenan, who was trapped with only part of her face exposed, allowing her to breathe. The rescue effort was difficult, requiring multiple people to dislodge the concrete rubble. Initial medical care was limited, and it took several hours to transport Keenan to a hospital, a two-and-a-half-hour boat ride away as detailed in reports.

Ongoing Treatment and Recovery

Keenan is now recovering in a hospital in Manila, having undergone three surgeries. She described the scene as being “like a war zone” in an interview with news.com.au. Complications arose from a parasite entering her leg through a wound caused by a pole that pierced her during the collapse. She continues to receive antibiotics and is awaiting repatriation to Australia for further care.

Crowdfunding Support

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Keenan’s medical expenses and recovery. The campaign highlights her adventurous spirit and the need for assistance during this challenging time.

Improvised Infrastructure Concerns

The incident raises concerns about the safety of improvised footbridges constructed from aging concrete slabs and wooden planks, commonly used for island-hopping tours in the region according to Palawan News.