PRO-NIR seeks tips on Bago killing

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region has urged anyone with relevant information to help authorities investigate the death of a 26-year-old man whose body was found wrapped in plastic and packaging tape beside a sugarcane field in Purok Langka, Barangay Pacol, Bago City, on Thursday.

Authorities identified the victim only as “Mickey,” a resident of Barangay 16 in Bacolod City, hours after his remains were discovered.

His siblings and former live-in partner identified him through his distinctive tattoos and clothing.

PRO-NIR cited a statement from the victim’s former live-in partner that he was last seen alive June 27 at the public plaza in Bacolod City, where he reportedly left with unidentified individuals.

Five days later, sugarcane workers found his body Thursday morning after noticing a foul odor in the area.

The regional office also disclosed that the victim had previous criminal cases for violation of Presidential Decree No. 1602, or illegal gambling, in Bacolod City, which were filed in 2018 and 2024.

Police are also validating intelligence information on the victim’s alleged involvement in previous property crime incidents.

Police Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño, acting regional director of PRO-NIR, said the intelligence reports are being assessed solely as part of the ongoing investigation.

Investigators are determining whether the reports have any relevance to the case, Cardiño said.

Cardiño said investigators are pursuing all available leads and coordinating with other law enforcement units to identify the perpetrators.

“We assure the public that this case is being treated with utmost urgency,” he added.

PRO-NIR also reminded the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or speculation that may hamper the investigation.