GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Authorities have launched an intensive investigation after the decomposing remains of a construction worker were discovered buried near his worksite in Greenfields Subdivision, Purok 24, Barangay Lagao, on Friday morning, November 21.
According to the Lagao Police Station, residents approached the police past 9 a.m. to report a foul odor in the area. They also saw a dog carrying what appeared to be human bones, prompting an immediate police response. When officers arrived, the stench became more evident, leading them to cordon off the site.
The SOCO team from General Santos City examined the scene and recovered a black jersey with the surname “PANSA” printed on it. This piece of clothing helped confirm the victim’s identity as John Mark Pansa, an adult construction worker from Kidapawan, North Cotabato, who had been staying at the site where he was employed.
Pansa had earlier been reported missing on November 8, 2025. Initial accounts from acquaintances claimed he had been drinking shortly before he disappeared.
His skeletal remains were found beside a house under construction, raising suspicions that he may have been killed and hastily buried to conceal the crime.
Police investigators are now digging deeper into the circumstances surrounding Pansa’s death. They are also working to identify and arrest the individuals responsible.
Authorities appeal to the public to come forward with any information that could help bring justice to the victim and provide closure to his family.