WAO, Lanao del Sur — A 36-year-old lending collector who had been missing for several days was found dead and buried in a canal at a pineapple plantation in Barangay Buntongan, Wao, Lanao del Sur, on October 9, with authorities investigating the killing and working to identify those responsible.
The victim was identified as Marvin Muñez Daumar, a single man and resident of Barangay Batangan, Valencia City, Bukidnon, who worked as a collector for JDS Lending. He was reported missing on October 5 after traveling to Barangay Buntongan to collect daily loan payments, according to the Wao Municipal Police Station.
During follow-up investigations, police received information that a missing man had allegedly been buried in the area. With the assistance of barangay officials, authorities traced the information to a semi-isolated plantation in Purok 5, Barangay Buntongan, where they discovered Daumar’s body buried approximately one meter underground.
The remains were already decomposing when recovered. Initial findings indicated that the victim had sustained gunshot wounds to the face and chest. Bangsamoro police spokesperson Capt. Steffi Salanguit confirmed the victim’s identity.
Residents Reportedly Heard Three Gunshots
As part of the initial investigation, authorities gathered information that residents had reportedly heard three gunshots at around 1 p.m. on October 5, the same day Daumar was reported missing. Heavy rain was falling at the time, according to the information provided to investigators.
Police are examining the circumstances surrounding the reported gunfire and determining whether it was connected to Daumar’s disappearance and death. Investigators are also looking into the individuals the victim had intended to collect payments from before he went missing.
However, authorities have yet to establish the circumstances that led to the killing, identify any suspects, or determine a possible motive. The people who were scheduled to make payments to Daumar have not been established as suspects, and their possible involvement, if any, remains subject to investigation.
Police Pursue Evidence and Post-Mortem Examination
Police investigators are conducting crime scene processing and gathering additional evidence to establish the sequence of events and identify those responsible. The victim’s remains were brought to a funeral home in Barangay Buot for the necessary procedures.
Authorities are also coordinating with the rural health officer for a post-mortem examination to help establish further details surrounding the victim’s death.
The investigation remains ongoing as police pursue leads related to Daumar’s last known movements, the reported gunshots, and the circumstances surrounding the discovery of his body.
Authorities have yet to announce an arrest in connection with the case. Police are continuing efforts to establish the motive and identify the person or persons responsible for the killing.