Tagum City, Davao del Norte — The city is in shock and mourning after the gruesome killing of 19-year-old UP student Maria Sophia Coquilla, who was found lifeless inside her own home in Purok 3-A, Barangay La Filipina, in the early hours of Monday. The brutal nature of the crime has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed calls for justice and safety in the community.
According to the Tagum City Police, Sophia was alone in her room when she was attacked and killed by suspected robbers. Her body was discovered bearing multiple stab wounds and blunt force injuries, reportedly inflicted using a knife, a box cutter, and a dumbbell — all weapons of opportunity used with shocking violence. Her tablet, ATM cards, and other valuables were missing, prompting authorities to suspect robbery as the motive. But residents and those who knew her believe it was more than just theft — it was a deliberate act of savagery.
CCTV footage revealed that three unidentified men were seen leaving the residence shortly after the incident. As of this writing, no arrests have been made. Police continue to gather leads and are currently reviewing more CCTV footage in the area to track down the perpetrators.
In the wake of the crime, La Filipina National High School, where Sophia was a former student, released an official statement through its Supreme Secondary Learner Government, condemning the senseless killing.
“It is with deep sorrow and outrage that the Supreme Secondary Learner Government of La Filipina National High School issues this statement condemning the tragic and unjust death of one of our former student, Sophia Marie G. Coquilla… Her life was full of promise, and her passing is a profound loss that deeply affects us all,” the statement read.
“We strongly condemn this brutal act and call upon local authorities to pursue justice swiftly and decisively. Those responsible must be held accountable.”
The student council called on the entire school community to stand united in grief and demand for justice, describing Sophia as a “cherished member” of their school remembered for her warmth, kindness, and potential.
The crime has left residents shaken, with many questioning how such violence could erupt inside what should be the sanctuary of a young woman’s home. Neighbors are fearful, students are in mourning, and a family is left with an unimaginable loss.
“This wasn’t just a robbery,” said one resident. “This was an execution. If we don’t act now, who will be next?”
Various youth organizations, women’s groups, and human rights advocates have also denounced the crime and expressed solidarity with the victim’s family, echoing the school’s call for swift and decisive justice.
The Tagum PNP is urging anyone with information about the crime or the suspects to come forward. Their investigators continue to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses to build a case that can lead to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
As investigations proceed, one message resounds throughout Tagum and beyond:
Justice for Maria Sophia Coquilla. Her light will never be forgotten.
If you have any information related to the case, please contact the Tagum City Police Station or call their hotline at 0919-748-5024/ 0967-450-1815.