MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — A man was found dead inside a makeshift shack in Purok 1, Barangay Can-ayan, Malaybalay City on the morning of June 17, 2026, prompting an investigation by local authorities into the circumstances surrounding his death.
According to a police report, officers from the Malaybalay City Police Station received information regarding the incident shortly after 8:00 a.m. Responding personnel immediately proceeded to the area where they discovered the victim lying lifeless inside a small shack commonly used as a resting place.
Initial investigations revealed that the victim may have ingested poison prior to his death. Authorities noted that a container believed to have contained a toxic substance was found beside the victim’s body, leading investigators to consider poisoning as a possible cause of death.
Family members told police that the victim was last seen alive at around 5:00 a.m. on June 16, 2026, along a barangay road near their residence. Relatives further disclosed that the victim frequently spent time in the shack where he was eventually found, especially during periods when he chose not to stay at their family home.
Investigators also learned from the family that both the victim’s father and cousin had died by suicide several years ago. The family expressed belief that the victim may have been influenced by a pattern that had long lingered within their family history, although authorities have not established any direct connection between the previous incidents and the victim’s death.
Police conducted an examination of the scene and found no indications of foul play or external injuries that would suggest the involvement of another person. Based on the initial findings, authorities are treating the case as a suspected self-inflicted death pending the results of further investigation and any available medico-legal examination.
The identity of the victim has not been publicly disclosed as authorities continue to coordinate with family members and complete the necessary documentation related to the case.
Police reminded the public of the importance of providing emotional and psychological support to individuals who may be struggling with personal difficulties and encouraged those experiencing emotional distress to seek assistance from family members, friends, healthcare professionals, or available support services.
The investigation remains ongoing.