MISSING CHILD FOUND DEAD IN MOUNTAIN PROVINCE, 12-YEAR-OLD BOY TAGGED AS SUSPECT

A missing toddler who was later found dead behind a chapel in Natonin, Mountain Province was allegedly killed by another minor who was surrendered by his parents, according to a police progress report released Tuesday.

Authorities identified the primary suspect as a 12-year-old Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL) who was voluntarily surrendered by his parents to the Natonin Municipal Police Station. Another minor, an 8-year-old boy, was also taken into custody for alleged involvement in the incident.

Police said the victim was found lifeless behind St. Martin de Porres Chapel in Sitio Batnong, Barangay Banawal, and was later declared dead due to traumatic brain injury.

Investigators said the case took a major turn after the mother of the 12-year-old boy disclosed that her son allegedly admitted involvement in the killing after asking what would happen if a child committed such a crime.

According to the police report, the minors allegedly admitted they had been drinking alcohol before the incident on May 23. Authorities said the 12-year-old boy allegedly instructed the 8-year-old boy to call the victim and bring the child to the back portion of the chapel.

Police further alleged that the 12-year-old boy later struck the victim on the head using a piece of wood after supposedly fearing the victim might report the incident. The victim was reportedly hit multiple times before being dragged near an avocado tree.

Both minors underwent medical examination before being turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office.

Authorities are now preparing the necessary proceedings under the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act against the 12-year-old boy, while the 8-year-old boy may be released to parental custody depending on the assessment of his participation in the incident.

The investigation remains ongoing.