5-year-old missing in Ilagan found dead in Sto. Tomas river

STO. TOMAS, ISABELA — A 5-year-old child who went missing in Ilagan City on the afternoon of September 30, 2026 was found dead in the Bagutari River in Sto. Tomas, Isabela, on October 1 following an overnight search by rescuers and police.

Initial information showed that the child left home to play with two other children. Relatives reportedly did not immediately notice that the child had gone out.

The child was later reported missing, prompting a search in surrounding areas. The search intensified after the child’s clothes and slippers were found near the river in Purok 6, Barangay Baligatan, Ilagan City.

Personnel from Rescue Ilagan and the Ilagan Component City Police Station joined the search operation and checked areas along the river.

On October 1, residents in Sto. Tomas reported seeing the body of a child in the Bagutari River. The remains were later identified as those of the 5-year-old reported missing in Ilagan City.

The child was reportedly living near the river and had a special condition.

Authorities are continuing to document the incident and determine the circumstances surrounding the child’s disappearance and death. The exact cause of death has yet to be confirmed based on the available information.

The family has begun making arrangements for the remains, which are expected to be brought back to their home in Ilagan City.

Authorities remind parents to watch children near waterways

The incident also serves as a reminder to parents and guardians to closely supervise young children, particularly those living or playing near rivers, creeks, ponds and other bodies of water.

Children should not be allowed to play near waterways without adult supervision. Families are also advised to teach children basic water-safety practices and to keep potentially dangerous areas inaccessible to young children whenever possible.