TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte — After years of grief and uncertainty following the death of 17-year-old Quinnie Grace Arong, her family is finally finding solace in a court ruling that found the accused guilty beyond reasonable doubt of homicide in connection with the teenager’s death in March 2020.
In its decision, the court declared the accused guilty beyond reasonable doubt of homicide, as defined and penalized under Article 249 of the Revised Penal Code.
The ruling marks a significant development in the case of Quinnie, whose remains were discovered on July 14, 2024, during excavation work for a septic tank on a property in Barangay Apokon, Tagum City. She had been reported missing since March 4, 2020.
Her brother, Jay Ar Arong, expressed the family’s long-awaited sense of relief in a Facebook post, saying that after years of pain, tears, and uncertainty, their prayers for justice had finally been answered.
“After 6 years of pain, tears, mental breakdowns, and uncertainties, JUSTICE is finally being SERVED,” he wrote, thanking those who prayed with their family throughout their ordeal.
Jay also assured his late sister that their family had never stopped praying for the justice she deserved, crediting their faith in God for helping them endure the long and painful wait.
The discovery of Quinnie’s remains in 2024 brought a tragic end to years of searching. Authorities reportedly recovered personal belongings believed to be hers, including a wristwatch, clothing, trousers, shoes, and her favorite socks. Investigators also found a rope believed to have been used to secure the sack in which the victim was allegedly placed.
Police previously reported that the accused had allegedly posed as a photographer and offered modeling opportunities to women. These details formed part of the investigative account surrounding the case.
With the court’s finding of guilt, Quinnie’s family has reached a major milestone in its pursuit of accountability for her death.
In his message, Jay expressed gratitude to God for sustaining their family during the years when they struggled to find answers. He cited Romans 12:19 and ended with a heartfelt farewell to his sister: “Finally, Rest in Peace, Quinnie.”
For the Arong family, the court ruling represents more than the conclusion of a long legal battle. It is a moment of remembrance for a young woman whose life was cut short at 17, and a long-awaited acknowledgment that her death must be answered for under the law.