ORMOC CITY – The decomposing body of a 78-year-old Australian national was discovered inside his home in Zone 3, Barangay Pagsulhugon, Babatngon, Leyte, around 7:30 p.m. on August 11, 2025.
Police identified the victim only as alias “Sam,” married, and a resident of San Isidro Street, Zone 3. He was found lying inside his bathroom after Barangay Pagsulhugon chairman alias “Jr.” reported the incident to the Babatngon Municipal Police Station (MPS).
Neighbors told police they last saw the victim on July 29, 2025, riding a motorcycle without a shirt. They also said he had no known enemies in the community. Police said Sam was living alone following his separation from his partner.
Municipal Health Officer Dr. Julieta Conge conducted a post-mortem examination around 8:30 p.m. the same day and ruled the cause of death as natural.
Despite the finding, the Babatngon MPS sought assistance from the Regional Forensic Unit 8 to process the scene for proper documentation and disposition.
(ELVIE ROMAN ROA)
