BACOLOD City — A newborn baby girl found abandoned along a roadside in Barangay General Luna, Sagay City, on June 28 is now in stable condition after being rescued and rushed to a government hospital.
Authorities said the infant was discovered by a resident along the road leading to Purok Hacienda Esperanza. She was found lying beside the roadside with her umbilical cord and placenta still attached, indicating she had likely been born only hours before she was abandoned.
Emergency responders immediately brought the baby to the Alfredo E. Marañon Sr. Memorial District Hospital, where she received urgent medical treatment.
Police said the newborn is healthy, in stable condition, and remains under close medical observation.
An investigation is underway to identify the child’s parents or guardian and determine the circumstances surrounding her abandonment. Authorities appealed to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to coordinate with the Sagay City Police Station.
In a statement issued on June 29, the Sagay City Government said it is closely coordinating with the hospital, the City Health Office, the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), and the Sagay City Police Station to ensure the infant receives proper care and protection.
The city government said two nurses from the hospital are attending to the baby, while the CSWDO has taken charge of the case and is facilitating the appropriate child protection and alternative care procedures in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
Sagay City Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva urged the public to protect the child’s welfare, dignity, and privacy by refraining from sharing unverified information while authorities continue their investigation.
“Every child’s life is important, and in Sagay, every child matters. This baby deserves protection, proper care, and the opportunity to grow in a safe and loving family,” Cueva said.
The mayor also reminded parents and families that children must never be neglected, abandoned, or placed in situations that endanger their lives.
He emphasized that Philippine child protection laws guarantee every child’s right to parental care, access to basic services, and protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
“Any custody, foster care, or adoption arrangement must undergo the proper legal process through authorized government agencies,” he added.
The city government likewise urged the baby’s mother, relatives, or anyone with relevant information to immediately coordinate with the CSWDO or the Women and Children Protection Desk of the Sagay City Police Station.
Officials assured that anyone who comes forward will be treated with respect and guided through the appropriate legal process, with the child’s best interests as the primary consideration.
The city also thanked concerned residents and emergency responders whose swift action ensured the newborn’s safety and immediate medical care./PN
