Veteran broadcaster and multi-awarded media practitioner Sam Costanilla, 68, was found dead inside his parked vehicle in Barangay Inayawan, Cebu City, on Sunday, Sept. 27.
Authorities said CCTV footage showed Costanilla arriving and parking his vehicle in the area shortly after 8 a.m. Friday, Sept. 25. The vehicle remained parked there until Sunday.
Children passing through the area reportedly noticed a foul smell coming from the vehicle and saw Costanilla unresponsive in the driver’s seat.
His brother, Ramon Costanilla, told Brigada News FM Cebu that the family did not usually notice when Sam came home because his schedule varied, especially when he had trips.
After being informed about the foul smell, the family checked the vehicle and found Sam inside. His body had already darkened.
Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak said there were no apparent signs of foul play. However, authorities are still awaiting the autopsy results to determine the exact cause of death.
Costanilla’s death has drawn mourning from Cebu’s media industry after decades of service in broadcasting and media.
