Police believe abducted American vlogger Elliot Eastman is still alive a month since his alleged kidnapping in a poverty-stricken town in the Philippines.

Local media outlet Bilyonaryo News Channel, citing an anonymous source, reported on November 15 that rescue missions were ongoing for the YouTuber who was reportedly whisked away by armed men from his wife's home in seaside Sibuco town in Zamboanga del Norte province on October 17.

However, officials have declined to reveal more details 'to avoid disrupting rescue operations'.

The search for Eastman was underway, with police clashing with suspected kidnapping groups in the conflict-torn southern island of Mindanao.

Three abduction suspects were killed in a gunfight with military forces in Zamboanga Sibugay province early morning on November 12. The trio, identified as Mursid Ahod and siblings Abdul and Fahad Sahibad, were believed to be part of a kidnapping group operating in the Zamboanga peninsula.

The town is 83 miles away from where Eastman was reportedly abducted from his seaside home.

The American YouTuber was reportedly in the house with his Muslim Filipina wife Karisha Jala when four armed men allegedly burst through the door around 10pm on October 17.

The attackers falsely claimed they were police and reportedly shot the expat in the leg when he tried to resist. He was then bundled away in a speedboat off the coast of Zamboanga del Norte - one of the most dangerous parts of the notoriously crime-ridden country.

Police arrived at around 11pm and took pictures of the suspected crime scene. Blood believed to be from Elliot's gunshot wound was smeared across a length of vinyl flooring. An empty bullet cartridge from an M16 rifle could also be seen alongside everyday items including a hat, handbag and food.

Former Sibuco Mayor Norbideiri Edding said kidnappers may have targetted the American because they thought he was a rich foreigner and resentment that he was living with a local Muslim woman.

He also claimed Elliot had been facing financial difficulties after allegedly being scammed by his previous girlfriend whom he had planned to marry.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said three suspects who 'directly participated' in the alleged abduction were in custody. However, the individuals reportedly refused to cooperate with the investigation.

The PNP added no proof of life or ransom demands have been received.

The Philippines' southern region has been grappling with constant separatist attacks for decades. A Muslim enclave in the predominantly Catholic country, it is also a notorious hub for violent extremist groups such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Islamic State-linked Abu Sayyaf.

Efforts toward peace have seen progress, with a 2014 peace agreement and the creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in 2019. However, sporadic clashes with extremist factions and ongoing poverty continue to challenge long-term stability.