General Santos City — The lifeless body of a man was discovered in a drainage canal near DBP Homes along Conel Road, Barangay San Isidro, around 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 7, 2025.
According to initial information, a local resident who was fishing in the canal noticed the body and immediately alerted the authorities. Barangay San Isidro Councilor Carlito Dela Peña said the remains, believed to be of a male, were found wrapped in weeds and submerged in the murky water.
The body was retrieved and brought to Labajo Funeral Homes as investigators worked to determine the victim’s identity.
Later that evening, the body was identified as Josefino Barbero Jr., 37 years old, a shoemaker and resident of Barangay Lagao, General Santos City. His family confirmed his identity.
According to the victim’s relatives, Josefino had been missing since Sunday and failed to return home. His body was discovered the following day.
Authorities believe Barbero may have suffered an epileptic seizure and accidentally fallen into the drainage canal, where he drowned. His family also believes that no foul play was involved in his death.
An official investigation is ongoing to confirm the circumstances surrounding the incident.