Tragedy in Natonin, Mt. Province: Toddler found dead after overnight search; authorities suspect foul play

Natonin, Mt. Province – A 3-year-old child who was initially reported missing on May 23 in Natonin was found dead the following morning after an overnight search, prompting authorities to investigate possible foul play and leaving the family and community in grief and shock.

According to the Natonin Municipal Police Station, as cited by local media, the victim, affectionately known as Baby Duma or Thea, was last seen at Banawel Elementary School in Sitio Batnong, Banawel, Natonin, on the morning of May 23 after accompanying her grandmother to attend a barangay gathering.

At around 2:00 p.m. on the same day, the grandmother reportedly noticed that Baby Duma was missing. After searching nearby areas, she sought help from family members and residents, but the child could not be located.

By 5:00 p.m., the grandmother formally reported the incident to authorities. Personnel from the Natonin Municipal Police Station and the Bureau of Fire Protection continued the search operation until around 2:00 a.m. on May 24.

At around 7:30 a.m., the 3-year-old was found lifeless behind the St. Martin de Porres Chapel in Sitio Batnong by the victim’s grandfather. She was immediately brought to the Anastacia Rafael Sagel Memorial Hospital in Poblacion, Natonin, but was declared dead due to traumatic brain injury by attending physician Dr. Mari Rose Tocuboy.

As of writing, authorities said the victim’s body will undergo an autopsy to determine the exact cause and circumstances surrounding her death. Meanwhile, the victim’s family continues to appeal for justice, prayers, and support as the investigation remains ongoing.