COTABATO CITY — Authorities are investigating the brutal killing of an LGBTQIA+ community member whose body was discovered inside an open tomb at the Malagapas Public Cemetery, Barangay Rosary Heights 10, on Friday afternoon, August 29, 2025.
The victim, identified as Carla Puti, was found around 4:40 p.m. by a cemetery caretaker, who immediately reported the incident to Police Station 2. Responding officers, together with operatives from the City Intelligence Unit, confirmed the discovery.
Initial investigation revealed that the victim, estimated to be around 23 years old, sustained severe injuries to the face, head, and neck, believed to have been inflicted with a hard object. Police noted signs that the victim may have been tortured before being killed.
The body was found stuffed inside an unused tomb, wearing blue pants, a black sleeveless shirt, and sporting blonde hair.
Station 2 Commander, PMaj. Teofisto “Jun” Ferrer Jr., confirmed that at least three individuals are suspected of involvement in the crime. He added that robbery is being eyed as the primary motive, although investigators are also probing other possible angles.
Ferrer also disclosed that Puti had recently been released from the Cotabato City Jail on charges related to human trafficking.
The remains were brought to a funeral home while investigators continue gathering evidence and statements from witnesses. Police have already identified persons of interest and are preparing charges against the suspects.
Authorities are appealing to the public for cooperation and information that may help in the swift resolution of the case.