Elderly Man Found Dead, Body Mutilated by Animals

By Jennifer P. Rendon

An elderly man was found dead at noon on June 26 in a secluded area of Barangay Taban-Manguining, Alimodian, Iloilo.

With post-mortem wounds on several parts of his body, authorities believe stray animals scavenged the remains of the victim, identified only as Oscar, 74, a resident of nearby Barangay Sinamay.

Thick overgrowth had concealed the body, making it difficult for passersby to notice.

It was discovered by 61-year-old farm owner Gabino Alpes while clearing the area with a tractor.

Alpes said he noticed a foul odor and investigated its source.

He then found the victim’s decomposing remains.

Oscar’s body was later positively identified by his nephew.

According to his family, Oscar, a bachelor, was last seen on April 21 after saying he would attend Mass.

Alimodian police chief Capt. Marion Asparo said Oscar had no permanent residence and often moved between relatives’ homes.

When employed, he typically stayed at his workplace.

Village officials said Oscar had no known enemies.

“It’s probable that he died of natural causes,” Asparo said.

His family also confirmed that Oscar had been suffering from tuberculosis.

They have declined an autopsy, police said.