DAVAO CITY — Authorities have launched an investigation after an alleged human fetus was discovered inside a black shoulder bag abandoned along the sidewalk of Maa Road in Purok 28, Barangay Maa, early Friday morning, July 24.
The disturbing discovery was made at approximately 5:20 a.m. by Jay Ar Sanico, 33, a garbage collector who was conducting his regular waste collection route in the area.
According to the initial police investigation, Sanico noticed a black shoulder bag left unattended along the sidewalk. Curious about its contents, he opened the bag and was shocked to find what appeared to be a human fetus inside.
Realizing the gravity of the discovery, Sanico immediately alerted authorities, prompting police personnel to respond to the scene.
Responding officers recovered both the alleged fetus and the black shoulder bag and transported them to the police station for proper documentation, forensic processing, and further investigation.
Police said investigators are now working to identify the individual responsible for abandoning the fetus and to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities are reviewing available closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from nearby establishments and searching for witnesses who may have seen suspicious activity in the area before the discovery.
Investigators have not yet disclosed the estimated age of the fetus or whether it will undergo a medico-legal examination to establish additional details that could aid in the investigation.
Authorities are also determining whether any criminal charges may be filed once the facts surrounding the case have been established.
The incident has sparked concern among residents of Barangay Maa, with many expressing shock over the discovery and hoping those responsible will be identified and held accountable.
Police have appealed to the public to cooperate with investigators by providing any information that could help identify the person who abandoned the fetus. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to coordinate with the nearest police station as the investigation continues.