BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – Two young children who were reported missing from Barangay Baldoza, La Paz district were found on the morning of October 13 inside an abandoned car in the area.
The children, identified only by their aliases “Camcam,” aged 5, and “Boknoy,” aged 4, had been missing since the previous day, October 12.
Rolly Dela Cruz, a 52-year-old resident of Barangay Baldoza, discovered the children inside the vehicle parked in his yard.
According to Dela Cruz, he heard tapping noises around 6 a.m. but initially dismissed them, thinking they were from nearby construction work.
Upon checking outside, he realized the sounds were coming from the car and heard a child’s voice.
With the help of a neighbor, Dela Cruz pried open the car window and rescued the children.
The children had entered the car after spotting a toy gun inside.
“Camcam told me to get the toy and (our other friend) Raven closed the car door,” recounted Boknoy.
He explained that they screamed for help but were not heard. They survived by drinking rainwater and slept inside the vehicle overnight.
Boknoy’s father, Roland Liganad, spoke about his search for his son, noting that he checked multiple areas, including Ticud, but could not locate him. “I knew my son wouldn’t wander far, but I just couldn’t find him,” he said, expressing relief upon the children’s safe return.
Although the children were found unharmed, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) has recommended that they undergo medical check-ups and psychological intervention.
ICPO director Police Colonel Kim Legada confirmed that no crime was involved, stating that the children had entered the car out of curiosity.
“It was purely accidental, but we need to ensure their mental well-being,” Legada said.
He also reminded parents to keep a close watch on their children, emphasizing the importance of regular supervision to prevent accidents.
“Children are naturally curious and adventurous, and it’s crucial to guide them to avoid dangerous situations,” Legada added./PN
