DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The body of a one-year old baby girl was found in the Davao river under Balusong bridge in Matina, authorities said Wednesday.
The baby was identified as Mikay Maylona Umobos, an Ata Manobo and daughter of Nida Umobos, 24, a resident of Paquibato District in this city.
Based on the initial investigation report of Talomo police station, the 911 rescue unit responders found the child dead floating on the river.
The mother said they were sleeping in a hammock at 2 a. m of December 18. When she woke up after an hour, she could not find elsewhere her daughter.
She then later sought assistance from Barangay Matina Crossing but to no avail.
In a statement, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte said the city commiserated with the family and described the child’s death as “tragic.” She ordered Wednesday an investigation and the police probe found no foul play.
Before the incident, Duterte said the families settling under the Balusong bridge have been rescued by the Davao City Social Services Office and the Matina Crossing Barangay Council.
“Despite knowing the dangers of living in such environment, these individuals surreptitiously and repeatedly violated the prohibition of living under the bridge,” Duterte said.
Duterte said the city social services office has conducted interviews to determine necessary interventions for the family.
The cadaver of Mikay was brought to Angel Funeral Homes for autopsy. (davaotoday.com)
