Authorities identified the victim as Carlito Bantilan, a resident of Barangay Obay, Polanco, Zamboanga del Norte, working as construction laborer.
Investigators said Bantilan was last seen the previous night drinking liquor with his companions before leaving to buy more alcohol.
According to his drinking companion, Bantilan also attempted to borrow additional money before he walked away and never returned again.
By morning, shocked residents discovered his lifeless body beside the road and immediately reported the incident to barangay officials.
Responding officers swiftly arrived and secured the crime scene to prevent any possible tampering with crucial pieces of evidence.
Authorities confirmed the victim bore no visible gunshot wounds, but investigators are still examining whether foul play may have occurred.
Police said the victim’s remains were transported to a local funeral home in Pagadian City for proper documentation and disposition.
Investigators are currently gathering testimonies from neighbors, drinking companions, and witnesses who may have observed Bantilan’s movements before the incident.
Pagadian City Police vowed to conduct a thorough investigation, emphasizing that no possible angle will be ignored until clarified.
Authorities are considering several possible motives, including robbery, alcohol-related altercation, or accidental fall, while awaiting autopsy results.
Police encouraged community members to provide any relevant information that may help solve the case and ensure justice for Bantilan.
Authorities continue investigating the case, determined to uncover circumstances and causes surrounding the sudden, unexplained death of the construction worker.
