A tragic incident has unfolded in Tabuelan, Cebu, where a 49-year-old mother was found lifeless in a mangrove area near Batawang Bridge, Sityo Tapon, Barangay Tabunok. The discovery was made at 8:00 AM on Thursday, February 12, 2026, casting a somber shadow over the local community.
Victim Identified as Susan Guinita Arellano
The victim has been identified as Susan Guinita Arellano, a married resident of Sityo Abante, Barangay Bongon in Tabuelan. According to police reports, she had left her home on Wednesday morning to purchase milk for her young child in the town center.
Discovery and Immediate Response
The body was spotted by Jerry Ortiz Dela Raya, a 36-year-old trucking driver from Negros Occidental, who was in the mangrove area. He promptly alerted nearby residents, and Nerissa Colipano reported the incident to the Tabuelan Municipal Police Station.
Authorities, including personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard and RHU Tabuelan, responded swiftly to the scene. Dr. Liegh Nicole Ruelan Cantil declared that the cause of death was drowning, based on initial assessments.
Family's Distress and Investigation Details
Susan's family grew concerned when only the milk arrived at their home via a tricycle driver she had tasked, but she herself did not return by evening. They searched for her unsuccessfully until news of the tragic discovery emerged on Thursday morning.
Police Master Sgt. Jemiren B. Arnado, the lead investigator from Tabuelan Police, revealed that the victim had a pre-existing medical condition that could cause sudden loss of consciousness or fainting. This has led investigators to suspect that she may have suffered an attack or episode while in the area, resulting in a fall into the water and subsequent drowning.
Despite these preliminary findings, the police are continuing their investigation to ensure no foul play was involved in this heartbreaking incident. The community remains in shock as they await further updates from authorities.
