A six-year-old girl who was reported missing was later found dead in a farm area in Victoria, Tarlac, prompting authorities to place a minor person of interest under the custody of social welfare authorities as the investigation continues.
In a statement, the Victoria Municipal Police Station said the child was initially reported missing on June 19. Police immediately conducted verification, reviewed available CCTV footage, and launched search and follow-up operations.
Responding officers later proceeded to a farm area where the body of the victim was discovered.
According to information gathered during the investigation, CCTV footage allegedly showed the victim being picked up from school aboard a tricycle several hours before she went missing. Another footage reportedly showed the same tricycle heading toward the area where the crime allegedly took place. Hours later, the tricycle was seen returning without the child.
Authorities said extensive follow-up operations led to the custody of a minor who may have information relevant to the case.
In accordance with Republic Act No. 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, as amended, the minor was immediately turned over to the appropriate social welfare authorities for proper intervention and disposition.
Police have yet to release further details on the identity of the minor due to existing laws protecting children in conflict with the law.
Meanwhile, the investigator handling the case requested a medico-legal examination by the Tarlac Provincial Forensic Unit to determine the exact cause and manner of the victim's death.
Authorities have also yet to confirm allegations that the child had been sexually abused, saying findings from the forensic examination are still pending.
The victim's family, meanwhile, called for justice for the slain child.
The Victoria Municipal Police Station extended its sympathies to the bereaved family and assured the public of a fair, impartial, and comprehensive investigation while observing the rights of all parties involved, particularly those protected under existing laws.
In a separate statement, the Local Government Unit of Victoria expressed its deepest sympathies to the bereaved family and strongly condemned all forms of violence, particularly incidents that result in the loss of life and threaten the peace and security of the community.
The municipal government said the safety and welfare of residents, especially children, remain among its top priorities.
It also urged the public to remain vigilant and exercise responsibility in sharing information online, particularly posts concerning the identities of the victim and the person of interest.
