Authorities are conducting DNA testing after a severed woman’s head was discovered in a grassy area along Dawis Road in Barangay Cansojong, Talisay City, Cebu, on July 11.
Later that evening, Kyde Tupas, a resident of Zamboanga City, went to the Talisay City Police Station with his sister-in-law to report the disappearance of his mother, Pilar Basilio, also known as Katha Saavedra, 48.
According to Tupas, Basilio worked as a stay-in caregiver in Barangay San Isidro, Talisay City.
He said the family last communicated with Basilio on July 4, 2026, which he described as unusual because they regularly kept in touch.
The family was also informed that Basilio had been reported missing from her workplace after allegedly leaving without informing anyone.
After learning about the discovery of the severed head, Basilio’s relatives went to the police station and underwent buccal swab collection.
The collected samples will be used for DNA testing to determine whether the remains belong to Basilio.
As of Monday morning, authorities had not established the identity of the victim.
Police said forensic examination and DNA analysis remain ongoing.
Investigators have yet to confirm whether the discovered remains are connected to the missing caregiver.
Authorities continue to examine the evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.
No additional information has been released regarding the circumstances surrounding the discovery or any possible suspects.
The police are awaiting the results of the forensic examination and DNA testing before making any conclusions regarding the identity of the victim.
