BACOLOD City — A 12-year-old girl from Iloilo who was reported missing since January 28 has been safely reunited with her family after authorities located her in Bacolod City.
Alma Gustilo, assistant department head of the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD), said the Bacolod City government facilitated the return of the minor and her companion, a 16-year-old boy, on February 8.
Initial reports indicated that the girl left her school in Jaro, Iloilo City after she was allegedly fetched by a male minor.
According to the DSSD, the two minors were found wandering the streets of Bacolod City for about a week. A concerned citizen brought them to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) at the BREDCO Port after learning that the girl matched the description of a reported missing child.
The Coast Guard Sub-Station Bacolod coordinated with the Bacolod City Mendicancy Management Division of the DSSD and escorted a municipal social worker from Dueñas, Iloilo aboard a barge to ensure the child’s safe return.
The DSSD said the minor was safely turned over to her family through the coordinated efforts of various government agencies and local government units.
Due to Tropical Storm “Basyang,” which caused the suspension of sea travel, the two minors temporarily stayed at an evacuation center in Bacolod City before returning home.
The Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office–Emergency Medical Services (DRRMO-EMS) conducted an immediate health assessment to ensure that both minors were in good condition and free from urgent medical concerns.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Dueñas traveled to Bacolod City to assist in the turnover of the minor and coordinate with her family.
“This collaborative effort reflects the importance of local government unit connections and inter-agency cooperation in ensuring the safety, protection, and best interest of every child. Together, we make child protection stronger,” the DSSD said.
Authorities withheld further details to protect the identity and privacy of the child and urged parents, schools, and communities to remain vigilant to prevent cases of child disappearance and possible exploitation./PN
