ORMOC CITY — Police have arrested a 27-year-old man for allegedly killing his two-year-old stepson in Barangay Catmon, Naval, Biliran, after investigators found evidence indicating the child had been physically assaulted inside their home.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Rey,” was taken into custody following an investigation by the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) and the General Investigation Section of the Naval Municipal Police Station, according to the Biliran Police Provincial Office (BPPO).
The incident came to light at around 10:30 p.m. on Aug. 1 when the child was found unconscious near their house. He was rushed to the Biliran Provincial Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
Responding police officers observed a severe injury at the back of the child’s head, prompting authorities to request the Biliran Provincial Forensic Unit to process the scene and conduct a forensic examination.
Police said the investigation identified the victim’s stepfather as the primary suspect after the child’s four-year-old sibling told investigators that the suspect allegedly punched the victim twice before pushing him to the ground.
Investigators also learned that the suspect allegedly became enraged because the child would not stop crying.
Based on the evidence gathered, police established probable cause and arrested the suspect. He was informed of his constitutional rights under the Miranda Doctrine and is now under the custody of the Naval Municipal Police Station while documentation is being completed.
Authorities are preparing to file a murder complaint against the suspect through inquest proceedings.
Biliran Provincial Director Col. Alex F. Delos Santos condemned the incident, saying violence against children has no place in society.
“Every Filipino child has the right to live safely and free from any form of violence. We will conduct a thorough, fair, and impartial investigation to ensure that anyone who violates the law will be held accountable,” Delos Santos said.
The Biliran Police Provincial Office said it remains committed to protecting children, pursuing justice for victims, and ensuring that those responsible for crimes are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
(ELVIE ROMAN ROA)
