Missing 29-yr.-old from Kapangan, Benguet found dead in cave beneath river

KAPANGAN, Benguet — After days of searching and hoping for his safe return, the search for 29-year-old Raul Aludos Juan ended in tragedy after he was found dead inside a cave, locally known as a “liyang,” beneath a river in Barangay Sagubo.

“After days of searching, he was found in a cave (liyang) beneath the river,” Juan’s family said as they confirmed the heartbreaking discovery.

Juan was reported missing on September 3, 2026. His disappearance was formally reported to the Kapangan Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) Emergency Operations Center at around noon on September 5.

The report prompted the MDRRMO to coordinate with Barangay Sagubo officials, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) for search and rescue operations.

An initial search was conducted by barangay officials and volunteers, but Juan could not be located. By 9 p.m. on September 5, the search had yielded no results.

The search continued as rescuers, barangay officials, relatives, friends and volunteers scoured areas where Juan might have been.

Their efforts eventually led to the discovery of Juan inside the cave beneath the river.

His family later confirmed his death, bringing to an end the days of uncertainty and hope that he would return home alive.

Family grateful to searchers

Amid their grief, Juan’s family expressed gratitude to everyone who joined the search and helped them through the difficult days.

They thanked rescuers, barangay officials, relatives, friends and volunteers who gave their time and effort to help locate Juan.

In a Facebook post, Juan’s sister expressed the family’s appreciation for the prayers and support they received during the search.

“From the bottom of our hearts, MARAMING SALAMAT PO. Your time, prayers, and effort gave us strength and hope during the darkest days. We will never forget your kindness.”

As of this writing, authorities had not yet released details on the circumstances surrounding Juan’s death or how he ended up inside the cave.

Juan’s death leaves his family and loved ones mourning the loss of a young life after days of searching and hoping to bring him home safely.