26-7-2023 (MANILA) The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has discovered a decapitated corpse inside a septic tank during a days-long search for a missing person deprived of liberty (PDL) in the New Bilibid Prison, according to a BuCor official. Michael Angelo Cataroja had been missing since July 15, and after BuCor was unable to locate him, they sought the help of the Philippine Coast Guard.
The Coast Guard’s search and rescue dogs were made to smell Cataroja’s clothes, and they led the team to the septic tank, where the decapitated corpse was found. BuCor Director General Gregorio Catapang Jr. said there is a “big chance” the corpse belongs to Cataroja.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed that the missing PDL had been found dead and decapitated. However, a thorough examination of the corpse is needed to confirm if it is indeed Cataroja’s. Experts from the National Bureau of Investigation will conduct the forensic examination.
BuCor Deputy Director for Operations Angelina Bautista said the corpse appeared to have been “chopped” up, and they received a tip that the septic tank had been used as a “mass grave.” This is the first time a PDL has gone missing under the watch of Catapang, who has been serving as BuCor acting chief since October 2022 and formally assumed the position in March this year.
