GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Authorities have launched an intensive investigation after a lifeless fetus believed to be around seven to eight months old was discovered inside the restroom of an inn along J. Catolico Avenue, Barangay Lagao, early Thursday morning, July 16.
The shocking discovery was made shortly after 6:00 a.m. by a room attendant who was conducting routine cleaning duties. The employee immediately alerted authorities after finding the fetus placed inside a wash basin in the restroom.
Responding police officers secured the area and conducted an initial investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police Major Junel Rey Gatera, chief of Police Station 6, said the fetus was estimated to be seven to eight months old, based on the initial assessment.
According to Gatera, investigators have already obtained CCTV footage from the establishment showing a visibly pregnant woman entering the inn with a companion before checking into one of the rooms.
Initial findings also suggest that the woman may not be a resident of General Santos City and was possibly only visiting the area at the time of the incident.
Authorities are now reviewing additional surveillance footage from the inn and nearby establishments while gathering other pieces of evidence that could lead to the identification of the woman and the individual who accompanied her.
Police are likewise coordinating closely with the management of the inn to obtain guest records and other relevant information that may help reconstruct the events leading to the discovery.
Meanwhile, Barangay Lagao Kagawad Edwar Leyson confirmed that the fetus was buried earlier in the day following the proper procedures observed by the barangay.
Leyson added that the barangay government continues to coordinate with the Philippine National Police as investigators work to identify those involved and determine whether criminal charges may be filed based on the outcome of the investigation.
Authorities have yet to establish the exact cause of the fetus’ death or determine whether any crime was committed. Investigators are expected to rely on forensic examination, witness accounts, CCTV footage, and other evidence to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing.