The family of 11-year-old Jacon Gerota, a child from Barangay Tiling, Cauayan, Negros Occidental, is seeking justice after he was found dead, reportedly strangled and possibly sexually assaulted.
He was reported missing on February 8, and his body was discovered the following day.
Police said a post-mortem examination by the Municipal Health Office confirmed that Gerota died from asphyxia due to strangulation, locally referred to as “kuga.”
The medico-legal report also noted “lacerations and perianal discoloration” that may suggest possible “anal penetration,” as well as softening of the hands and feet due to prolonged exposure to water.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding his death and to identify those responsible.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, contributes to Negros Daily Bulletin, and maintains a blog on Medium.