Missing Slovak tourist found dead in Boracay

MANILA, Philippines — A Slovak woman who had been reported missing was found dead at an abandoned chapel on Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan on Wednesday.

The decomposing body of Michaela Mickova, 23, was found at around 2:19 p.m. in Barangay Balabag by a resident, Johnyl Mariano, 26.

Mariano told police he was on his way home from the beach when he smelled a stench along the way.

He said he followed the source of the stench and ended up at the chapel where he found the body of the victim on the floor.

Mariano said he called his neighbor and together they sought the help of authorities.

Responding police officers said the victim was naked from the waist down and her blouse was rolled up. She was wearing her shoes and her legs were spread apart.

The victim was wearing a beltbag, but her wallet was missing.

Probers said the victim bore a stab wound in the abdomen.

Lt. Col. Mar Joseph Ravelo, chief of the Malay police, confirmed that the victim was the missing Slovak tourist.

Mickova was reported missing on Monday by her Filipina friend. She arrived in Boracay on March 1 to attend the wedding of her friend.

She stayed in a hotel located a kilometer away from where her body was found.

Earlier, a P50,000 reward was offered to anyone who could help find her.

Aklan police director Col. Arnel Ramos gave assurance that Boracay remains a safe and secure tourist destination.