Woman found dead

CEBU, Philippines - A 68-year-old widow was found dead inside her house at sitio Planta, barangay Poblacion, Medellin, northern Cebu.

Police believe that someone hit Socorro Montesclaros’ head with a hard object.

She was found lying on a bed in the living room, covered with bloodstains, at about 7:15 in the evening Tuesday. She had a wound in the head.

Police Officer 2 Rosilito Ortiga of the Medellin Police Station said the only evidence they recovered was a stone that was possibly used by her assailant.

A certain Restie Mañalac, 38, is considered a suspect because he was last seen with the victim last February 28 about 10:00 in the evening.

Ortiga said SFO3 Judelino Almacen, son-in-law of the victim, wondered why she did not go out of her house for almost a day, prompting him to check. It was he who discovered her dead body covered with a blanket.

Policemen believe it could be robbery because the bank passbook, three piggy banks, a cellular phone and land titles of the victim are missing.

Neighbors of the victim said they saw Mañalac at the porch of the victim’s house, drinking liquor, while talking with Montesclaros.

Ortiga said the victim was possibly killed while sleeping since there was no sign of struggle.

Police are still looking for Mañalac. A murder case will be filed against him at the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office today. (FREEMAN)