PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur — A family’s search for a missing mother ended in tragedy after her remains were discovered buried in Awa, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, with authorities now working to identify the person responsible for her death.
The victim was identified as Lilia R. Urbiztondo, an adult married woman and homemaker who resided in the area. She had initially been reported missing after she suddenly disappeared, prompting her family to seek help from the public and appeal for information from anyone who might have seen or encountered her.
Days later, the search took a devastating turn when Urbiztondo’s body was found buried in Awa. The circumstances surrounding her disappearance, death and burial remain under investigation, and the person who allegedly buried her has not yet been identified.
Authorities are continuing to gather information and examine the circumstances that led to the discovery of Urbiztondo’s remains. Investigators are also working to determine the exact cause and manner of her death and establish who may have been responsible.
The discovery has left Urbiztondo’s family demanding justice, particularly after what they described as the painful loss of a mother whose disappearance had initially raised hopes that she could still be found alive.
In a social media post, one of Urbiztondo’s daughters expressed her grief and frustration over the loss of her mother, recalling how the family cared for her and provided for her needs.
The daughter said her mother had been loved, cared for and given her medicines and daily necessities, making the circumstances of her death even more painful for the family.
“Dili na mabalik imo kinabuhi nga gikuha sa taong walay utang kabubut-on,” the daughter wrote, expressing the family’s anguish over the life taken from their mother.
She also appealed for justice while acknowledging that the family could do little but leave the matter in God’s hands.
The daughter ended her emotional message by telling her mother not to worry about the family and assuring her that they would endure the pain of her death. She also expressed hope that her mother was now at peace with her own parents and siblings.
As the investigation continues, the family is left to mourn a loss that authorities are still working to fully explain. They are seeking answers about what happened to Urbiztondo after she disappeared and, ultimately, accountability for whoever may have been behind her death.
Authorities have yet to publicly identify a suspect or disclose a possible motive. Any person who may have information relevant to the investigation is urged to coordinate with the appropriate authorities.
The case remains under investigation.