BACOLOD City – A five-year old girl who was reported missing days ago was found dead on Saturday, December 28, in a creek in Purok Sto. Domingo, Barangay Handumanan here.
The victim identified as Quennie, whose body was already in an advanced state of decomposition, was positively identified by her elder sister and her aunt because of the clothes she was wearing.
According to the family, the girl went missing on December 21 in the village’s Purok Manville.
Upon learning of the incident, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez directed the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) to launch an intensive investigation into the case.
“If foul play is confirmed, we will ensure that those responsible face the full force of the law. There will be no leniency, no delays, and no tolerance for those who bring harm to our children,” the mayor pointed out.
The city government has also taken immediate action by coordinating with the child’s mother.
As of this writing, burial arrangements were underway, ad Barangay Handumanan’s village chief provided the family with comprehensive support.
Mayor Benitez, meanwhile, urged the residents of the city to remain vigilant and proactive.
“This tragedy serves as a painful reminder that the safety and well-being of our children demand constant vigilance and collective effort. The city government will not rest until we build a community where such heinous acts have no place,” he said./PN
