MALITBOG, BUKIDNON — A 71-year-old farmer was found dead early Wednesday morning in Sitio Lindaban, Barangay Kiabo, after reportedly being gored by his own carabao—a recurring incident that had previously endangered his life.
The victim, identified only as Felipe (not his real name), was discovered lifeless by his wife and child at around 6:00 a.m. when they visited his farm. According to the family, the elderly farmer was found lying face down on the ground with visible injuries, including wounds and possible impact marks from nearby rocks.
Police said the victim’s body was located in a sloped canal area near the spot where his carabao was tied. Initial observations raised the possibility that the animal may have gored him—an incident that relatives said had occurred several times before.
However, doubts surfaced the previous afternoon when the victim’s godchild, who was allegedly under the influence of liquor, claimed that the elderly farmer was known for being strict and for prohibiting anyone from hunting frogs within his property. This statement prompted the family to question whether foul play might have been involved.
Despite these concerns, the victim’s son told investigators that his father had indeed been attacked by the same animal in the past, strengthening the angle that the incident may have been accidental.
To determine the exact cause of death, the family has requested a full autopsy examination. Authorities from the Malitbog Municipal Police Station are continuing their investigation while waiting for the autopsy results.
The tragic death highlights the risks faced by rural farmers who often work alone in isolated areas and handle large farm animals that can become unpredictable.