A Canadian national who had long been battling several serious health conditions was found lifeless inside his residence in Malaybalay City shortly after midnight on May 25, 2026.
The victim was identified as Joseph Thomas Ison, 82, a resident of Purok 6, Barangay Maligaya.
According to an initial police report, authorities were alerted to the incident at around 12:20 a.m. after the Barangay Captain of Maligaya reported the situation to local police.
Responding officers immediately proceeded to the residence where they found Ison lying motionless on a hospital bed inside his room. He was declared dead at the scene after showing no signs of life.
Investigators said the victim’s wife informed authorities that her husband had complained of body pains while resting on his bed just hours before his death.
Mrs. Ison further revealed that her husband had been bedridden since January 2026 due to multiple health complications, including diabetes, heart problems, and hip-related conditions. She added that he underwent a total hip replacement surgery on March 24 this year.
Police investigation also disclosed that no indications of foul play or external injuries were observed during the initial examination of the body and the surrounding area.
Authorities continue to document the incident, although the circumstances surrounding the death are currently being treated as natural and health-related pending further medical assessment.
The case highlights the difficult realities faced by elderly individuals suffering from chronic illnesses, particularly those requiring long-term care and medical attention.