Authorities have located the body of the young boy who fell into the Tullahan River in Malabon City this Friday, February 20, 2026, the local government confirmed.

The discovery brings a tragic end to an intensive search operation that began after the child went missing on Thursday, February 19, in Barangay Tinajeros.

According to the Malabon Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), the eight‑year‑old was last seen near the river around 4:52 p.m. on Thursday when he reportedly slipped and fell into the water. His family immediately alerted authorities after he did not resurface.

Responders from the DRRMO, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, Malabon City Police Station, barangay officials, and volunteer teams conducted extensive search and retrieval operations along the riverbanks and adjoining sections of the 27.1‑kilometer waterway that flows through Metro Manila before emptying into Manila Bay.

The Tullahan River has long been a focal point for flood response and safety efforts in the region due to its course through several densely populated cities, including Malabon. Cleanup and rehabilitation initiatives have been underway to reduce flooding and improve water quality, but strong currents and murky conditions remain challenges for rescue teams.

Local officials have expressed condolences to the boy’s family, urging communities near rivers and waterways to exercise heightened caution, especially during the rainy season when water levels and currents can become unpredictable.

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident as the city mourns the loss.