OPOL, Misamis Oriental — A 58-year-old farmer was found dead in Zone 5, Carabao Valley, Barangay Awang, Opol, Misamis Oriental, on the morning of September 6.
The victim was identified as Samuel Tomarong, a resident of Calabay-labay, El Salvador City. His identity was confirmed through coordination between Barangay Awang Captain Junjun Mag-away and officials from Calabay-labay after the victim’s photo was sent to them. Tomarong had earlier been reported missing by his family.
Based on the initial police investigation, Tomarong’s body was discovered near the roadside at the base of a cliff estimated to be more than 60 feet high. Some residents speculated that he may have jumped, while others suspected he was dumped in the area.
Investigators from the Opol Municipal Police Station reported that Tomarong bore no major injuries aside from facial bruises. “He had no head wounds, only some bruises on his face. Based on the initial assessment of SOCO personnel, there were no signs of stabbing or gunshot wounds,” said Police Investigator Abellanosa.
Authorities also recovered some of the victim’s belongings at the scene, although no identification cards were found.
Tomarong’s sibling admitted that the family remains in the dark as to why he ended up in Barangay Awang. Reports suggest that depression may have played a role, but this has yet to be confirmed by investigators.
The Opol police continue to investigate the incident to determine the circumstances behind Tomarong’s death.