LIBUNGAN, Cotabato — Grief and heartbreak engulfed the communities of Libungan and nearby towns after authorities confirmed that the body recovered floating along the river in Barangay Central Labas, Kadayangan SGA-BARMM on Wednesday morning, May 20, 2026, was that of five-year-old Jasmine Claire Ngalis, who had gone missing after drowning in the Libungan River two days earlier.
Residents of Barangay Central Labas reportedly discovered the body of a young girl floating in the river at around 6:00 a.m. and immediately alerted local authorities.
Personnel from the Municipal Disaster Team and the Libungan police quickly responded to the scene together with Jasmine’s parents. Upon arrival, the devastated family confirmed that the recovered child was indeed Jasmine Claire.
The heartbreaking discovery ended three straight days of relentless search and retrieval operations carried out by rescuers, volunteers, and government agencies who worked tirelessly in hopes of finding the child alive.
Among those who joined the operation were the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Libungan, Libungan Municipal Police Station, the 1201st Army Reserve Unit, Responders of Midland, MDRRM personnel, Amping Libungan Rescue Team, Midsayap Responders, volunteers from Northern Kabuntalan, and several civic and community groups.
Local officials also expressed gratitude to a resident identified only as “Cedic,” who first spotted Jasmine’s body, as well as to the Barangay Council of Central Labas led by Barangay Captain Nasser Gintam for their immediate coordination and assistance.
The office of Mayor Apol Cuan extended its appreciation to all responders, volunteers, and individuals who offered prayers, support, and manpower throughout the difficult operation.
In a statement, the Local Government Unit of Libungan conveyed its deepest condolences to the grieving family.
“At this time of profound sorrow, the Local Government Unit of Libungan stands in prayer and sympathy with the family of Jasmine Ngalis. May they be granted strength, comfort, and hope amid this painful tragedy,” the statement read.
The tragedy has deeply touched many residents across Cotabato and neighboring communities, with social media flooded by messages of sympathy and prayers for the young victim and her family.
In an emotional post, a family member mourned the loss of the child, describing Jasmine as a loving and joyful little girl whose memory would forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.
“With deepest sorrow, our beloved Jasmine Claire has left us too soon. Though her time with us was brief, her love, laughter, and memory will live on in our hearts forever,” the family wrote.
They added: “Rest in eternal peace, baby namu. Fly high our little angel. Love ka namu tanan — mama, papa, ate, kuya, titos, titas, lolo, lola, friends, and relatives.”
As the family prepares to lay the child to rest, the tragedy leaves behind a grieving community mourning a young life lost far too soon.