KIDAPAWAN CITY, Cotabato — A 53-year-old man was found dead inside a deep pit in a remote farming area of Barangay Macebolig on Sunday morning, April 5, after he had been missing for several days.
Authorities identified the victim as Epifanio Buot Datuin, a resident of Purok 8 in the said barangay. His lifeless body was discovered at around 9:00 a.m. inside a hole estimated to be about 20 feet deep, located in a farm area in Purok 3.
Initial investigation by the police suggests that the victim may have accidentally fallen into the pit. However, authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of death as a thorough investigation remains ongoing.
According to Datuin’s family, he had a history of mental health issues and would often run away or hide upon seeing unfamiliar people. His brother recounted that the victim was last seen at around 7:00 p.m. on March 26 while having dinner. At the time, Datuin reportedly noticed two men near a neighboring house, prompting him to suddenly flee toward a wooded area of the barangay.
Alarmed by his sudden disappearance, his family, along with barangay officials, immediately conducted search operations across nearby areas, including forested portions of the community. Despite days of effort, they failed to locate him.
It was only after several days of searching that his body was eventually discovered in the deep pit, bringing a tragic end to the family’s hopes of finding him alive.
Local authorities are continuing their investigation to rule out any possible foul play, though early findings point to an accidental fall. They are also coordinating with the victim’s family for further information that may shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death.
The incident has raised concerns among residents about the presence of uncovered or unsecured pits in rural and agricultural areas, which pose serious risks, especially to vulnerable individuals.
Officials have yet to release further details pending the results of the ongoing investigation.