A farmer was found dead with apparent stab wounds in Purok Paglaum, Barangay Mabuhay, Molave, Zamboanga del Sur, after a resident accidentally discovered his body while trying to catch a cow grazing near the area.
The incident was reported to authorities at around 2:40 p.m. on August 10, 2026, after the barangay chairman informed the Molave Municipal Police Station (MPS) about the discovery.
According to the initial police investigation, the concerned resident was attempting to retrieve his cow when he noticed the victim lying motionless in a grassy portion of the area. Upon closer inspection, the resident saw that the man had apparent stab wounds, particularly on his back.
The resident immediately reported the discovery to barangay officials and the police, prompting responding personnel from the Molave MPS to proceed to the area.
Police investigators also coordinated with the Zamboanga del Sur Provincial Forensic Unit, which conducted crime scene processing and documented evidence that could help establish the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Authorities have yet to identify the motive behind the attack and have not disclosed the identity of any suspect. Investigators are also working to determine whether the victim was attacked at the location where his body was found or was brought there after the assault.
Following the crime scene examination and post-mortem procedures, the victim’s remains were turned over to his family and brought to a funeral home for proper arrangements.
The Molave MPS has launched follow-up investigations and operations aimed at identifying, locating, and arresting the person responsible for the killing.
Police are appealing to residents who may have witnessed suspicious activity in Purok Paglaum or who may have information regarding the victim’s movements prior to the incident to come forward and coordinate with authorities.
Authorities emphasized that any information, even seemingly minor details, could help investigators establish the circumstances of the incident and identify the perpetrator.
The investigation remains ongoing.