TAMPAKAN, SOUTH COTABATO — A 23-year-old man who was reported missing for three days was found dead in a remote farming area in Barangay Buto, Tampakan on Tuesday afternoon, November 18.
The victim was identified as Nikko Evangelista Omas, also known as “Kong-kong,” a resident of the municipality.
According to initial accounts from residents who discovered the body, Omas was found bloodied on the ground with a visible bullet hole in his head, strongly suggesting he was shot. His remains were located in Sitio Puting Bato, a secluded and rugged portion of the barangay.
Family members said Nikko left their home early Sunday morning, November 16, and could no longer be contacted afterward, prompting them to seek help from authorities when he failed to return.
Barangay officials and police were immediately alerted after the discovery. Officers from the Tampakan Municipal Police Station have launched a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances behind the killing, including whether foul play or other motives were involved.
The Evangelista-Omas family is in deep grief, having spent days searching for the young man only to find him lifeless under violent circumstances.
Police are calling on anyone with information to come forward as the probe continues.