Cork woman, 26, who died while canyoneering in the Philippines remembered as 'beacon of light'

Canyoneering is an outdoor sport which involves a traversing canyons through combination of rock climbing, hiking, swimming, rappelling, and other techniques.

According to the Sun Star newspaper in the Philippines, Ms Haugh was about halfway through a three-hour adventure when she collapsed after complaining about chest pains. 

Her companions, and a doctor who was canyoneering with a different group, attempted to revive her but were unsuccessful.

The newspaper also reported that those present initially struggled to contact emergency services because they could not get a signal from their location.

Writing on RIP.ie, Ms Haugh’s family said Meg had passed away “in the company of her good friend Tessa while exploring the beautiful Philippines”.

“Beloved daughter of Richard and Kathryn, adored sister of Sally, Marty and William, loving granddaughter of Willie and the late Peggy, Sally and Martin,” the family wrote.

“Meg will always be remembered by her loving parents, siblings, grandfather, aunts, uncles, cousins, great friends and wonderful neighbours.” 

Many friends and acquaintances of Meg Haugh have also written online tributes to her in the days since her death.

“Meg was always a bright and bubbly person, a great friend and I will always be grateful to have known her,” wrote one friend.

“My deepest sympathies to her family and friends. She will be missed forever.” 

Another said: "Meg was truly such a lovely, kind and positive person. It was a pleasure to call Meg a friend and she will always be remembered.

“My sincerest condolences to her family during this very difficult time.” 

Another described the 26-year old as “a beacon of light, always willing to have a chat and she will be sorely missed”.