KIDAPAWAN CITY, Cotabato del Sur — Residents were left shocked and heartbroken after the lifeless body of a newborn baby boy was discovered floating in a river in a residential area on Thursday afternoon, March 5.
The infant was found drifting in the Nuangan River in Taran Subdivision, Barangay Poblacion, in Kidapawan City. According to initial reports, the baby still had his umbilical cord attached, indicating that he had been born only recently before being abandoned.
The grim discovery was first made by several college students who happened to pass by the area. Noticing a small body floating along the river, they immediately alerted nearby residents and reported the incident to authorities.
Responding personnel later retrieved the body from the water. Authorities confirmed that the child was a healthy baby boy, but he was already lifeless when found.
Investigators said the infant had visible wounds and abrasions on his body, which are believed to have been caused after the body struck rocks and other debris while being carried by the river’s current.
Police are now conducting an investigation to determine how the newborn ended up in the river and who may be responsible for abandoning the child.
Authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the baby was deliberately discarded shortly after birth. Efforts are underway to identify the mother and determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
The discovery has sparked outrage and sadness among residents of the community, many of whom expressed disbelief that a newborn child could be abandoned in such a manner.
Police are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information that may help identify the person responsible is urged to coordinate with the nearest police station.
The case remains under active investigation.