Tragedy Strikes Silay City Home: Child Killed, Siblings Injured in Brutal Attack
A horrific incident has shaken the community of Silay City in Negros Occidental, where a nine-year-old girl lost her life and her two siblings were seriously injured after an unidentified assailant attacked them inside their family home. The attack occurred on February 7, 2026, in Barangay E. Lopez, leaving a family devastated and authorities scrambling for answers.
Police Launch Thorough Investigation into Minor Victims' Case
Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay, Director of the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), has ordered a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the tragic event. Emphasizing the sensitivity of the case involving minors, Ibay stated that the investigation must be thorough, objective, and evidence-based. He has directed concerned units to pursue all leads vigorously to ensure justice is served for the victims and their family.
Details of the Attack and Family Background
According to Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, chief of the PRO-NIR Public Information Office, the attack took place around 11:30 a.m. while the three siblings were inside their house. The victims include the deceased nine-year-old girl, her 14-year-old sister, and their three-year-old brother. Their half-sister reported that when their father returned home, he discovered the injured minors in their room.
The children were immediately rushed to the Teresita Jandoni Provincial Hospital for medical treatment. Tragically, the nine-year-old girl did not survive her injuries, while her siblings are receiving care. The family's situation is compounded by the fact that their mother is an overseas Filipino worker (OFW), and their father works in Bacolod City, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by such households.
Officials Offer Rewards and Condemn the Crime
In response to the heinous act, Silay City Mayor Joedith Gallego has offered a P25,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspect. Additionally, Negros Occidental Third District Representative Javier Miguel Benitez has contributed another P50,000 reward, bringing the total to P75,000. Both officials have strongly condemned the crime, urging the community to assist in bringing the perpetrator to justice.
Appeal for Witnesses and Community Support
Brigadier General Ibay expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family, particularly mourning the loss of the young child. He assured them that the police will exert all efforts to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable. Authorities are now conducting a follow-up investigation to establish the circumstances of the incident and identify the suspect. Ibay has urged witnesses or anyone with information to come forward and help authorities in their pursuit of justice.
The Silay City Police Station is actively working on the case, focusing on possible motives and suspect identification. This incident has raised concerns about safety and security in the area, prompting calls for increased vigilance and community cooperation to prevent such tragedies in the future.
