DAVAO CITY (March 24, 2026) — A 16-year-old girl was found dead early Sunday morning, March 23, inside a house in Sitio Ulas, Barangay Saloy, Calinan District, after reportedly joining a drinking session with friends the day before—an incident that has sparked grief and outrage from her family, who are now demanding justice and a full investigation.
The victim, identified only as alias “Paw-paw,” was a resident of Davao Gulf, Tamugan, in the same city.
Drinking Session Before Tragedy
Initial accounts revealed that on Saturday afternoon, March 22, the victim was with six companions—four males and two other females—who went to swim in a river in Barangay Bantol. According to a witness, the group consumed at least two bottles of alcoholic beverages (“long neck”) before heading home.
Due to intoxication, the victim was reportedly unsteady on her feet, repeatedly falling and hitting the ground and concrete surfaces as they made their way back.
Alleged Altercation and Fatal Injury
Further details from the victim’s grandmother, Precy Itdang, disclosed that the victim allegedly got into a heated argument with her cousin, identified as Jennifer Mag-abo, in Barangay Suawan after the swimming trip.
Both were reportedly under the influence of alcohol when the altercation occurred. During the confrontation, Jennifer allegedly pushed the victim, causing her to fall and hit her head.
However, the family is not convinced that the incident was purely accidental.
Suspicious Injuries Raise Questions
According to Itdang, the victim sustained multiple bruises and injuries inconsistent with a simple fall. She also reportedly had bleeding from her nose and chest, raising suspicions that she may have been physically assaulted.
The grandmother questioned why the victim was brought to Barangay Saloy instead of being rushed for immediate medical attention. She also criticized the failure to inform the family right away, which could have potentially saved the teenager’s life.
Found Lifeless
The victim was discovered lifeless at around 6:00 a.m. on Sunday inside the house of her cousin’s live-in partner in Sitio Ulas, Barangay Saloy.
Authorities have yet to release official findings on the exact cause of death as investigations continue, including a possible autopsy to determine whether the injuries were accidental or the result of foul play.
Family Seeks Justice
The victim’s mother, Jackelyn, is now calling for justice for her daughter, echoing the family’s demand for accountability and clarity over the circumstances surrounding her death.
The grieving family is urging authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation to uncover the truth and ensure that those responsible—if any—are held accountable.
“This is not just an accident until proven otherwise,” a family member said, emphasizing the need to examine all angles of the case.
Ongoing Investigation
Police are currently gathering testimonies from those who were with the victim during the incident, including her companions and relatives present at the time. Investigators are also looking into the timeline of events, particularly the delay in seeking medical help.
As the probe continues, the tragic death of the young girl has once again raised concerns about underage drinking, safety, and accountability among minors.
For now, a family mourns the loss of a young life cut short—while holding on to hope that justice will soon be served.