Makilala, Cotabato – June 11, 2025 — An 18-year-old woman who went missing after leaving home to find a cellphone signal was found dead the next morning in a creek within the Boy Scout Camp compound in Old Bulatukan, Makilala, Cotabato. Authorities suspect she may have been raped before being killed.
The victim was identified as Rhona Mae Patricio, a resident of Purok Durian in the same barangay. According to her parents, she left their house at around 7:30 p.m. on June 10, 2025, to look for a cellphone signal after asking permission — but never returned home.
The following morning, at around 7:30 a.m., concerned citizens discovered her lifeless body in a creek inside the Boy Scout Camp. Police investigators from the Makilala Municipal Police Station, led by PCMS Richie Gesulga, reported that the victim had serious head injuries, both at the front and back, which likely caused her death.
Initial findings revealed that her upper and lower garments were missing, raising strong suspicion that she was sexually assaulted before being murdered. However, authorities are still awaiting the official results of the post-mortem examination to confirm this.
Investigators are now examining Rhona Mae’s last digital interactions, including her most recent chat messages and calls, to identify any leads. The Makilala police are also appealing to the public to come forward with any information that may help in solving the case and bringing justice to the victim and her family.
This tragic incident has sparked outrage in the local community, with calls for stronger protection for women and stricter enforcement against violence and abuse.