ILOILO City — The lifeless body of a 39-year-old man was discovered in a secluded, vegetated area along Project 5 C1 Road in Barangay Sooc, Arevalo district, on the morning of February 19, prompting an ongoing police investigation.
The victim was identified as Aurello Lastimoso Diaz, a married father of two who had been staying with a sibling in Barangay Maliao, Pavia, Iloilo, and was originally from Barangay Pangilihan, Janiuay.
Authorities said the body was found around 7 a.m. Identification was confirmed by Diaz’s sister, Mary Jane Lamigo, and Barangay Pangilihan captain Tito Lago based on his clothing, wristwatch, and physical features that had circulated on social media.
Lamigo said Diaz left their home around 7 p.m. on Wednesday and was expected to return shortly. “He always keeps in touch, but this time he didn’t,” she said, adding that the family fears foul play.
Police noted that the victim’s motorcycle, wristwatch, and wallet were missing, raising the possibility of robbery or premeditated violence.
Police Captain Michael Tillo Tuburan, chief of the Arevalo police station, said investigators have recovered evidence from the scene and requested an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
“Initial observations showed significant trauma, including severe bruising around the eyes and gashes on the head,” Tuburan said.
The victim was found topless, wearing blue multi-pocket shorts and a black T-shirt with white and pink lettering.
Barangay Sooc captain Ricardo Togado said the body was located in a muddy area near a bridge after a tanod reported the incident. He noted that no residents initially recognized the victim.
As of this writing, police continued to conduct forensic analysis on evidence recovered from the scene, including the victim’s sandals, as the investigation intensified.
“We just want to know what happened to him, and we hope those responsible are held accountable,” Lamigo said./PN
