The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has retrieved a cadaver found floating northeast of Barangay Gamao, in Tingloy, Batangas.
The PCG said on Saturday that Coast Guard Station (CGS) Batangas received an alert from the Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) Batangas, relaying a radio call from MV Maria Zenaida of Montenegro Shipping Lines Incorporated.
The vessel, en route from Batangas Port to Abra de Ilog Port, reported the discovery of a decomposed male body clad in an orange “Tour de Infanta” shirt, olive green shorts, and a black belt.
Preliminary details indicate the individual’s age to be between 25-30 years, with a dark complexion, medium build, and a height of 5’7”.
According to the PCG’s report, VTMS Batangas promptly informed nearby vessels navigating the waters off Tingloy and Batangas Bay to be vigilant and report any sightings of the floating cadaver to the Coast Guard.
CGS Batangas collaborated with its sub-station in Tingloy to initiate a search and retrieval operation. Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Tingloy coordinated with local authorities, dispatching a team from Tingloy Port.
CGSS Tingloy also coordinated with CGSS Mabini, Barangays Gamao, and Pisa in Tingloy to assemble an additional search and retrieval team.
After an exhaustive search, the body was transported to Barangay Mainit, Mabini, Batangas, and handed over to the local police for proper handling and documentation.
The Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) of Batangas Provincial Police Office will conduct an autopsy to ascertain the cause of death.