Missing 5-year-old found dead in Sto. Tomas river

A 5-year-old child who went missing in Ilagan City on September 30, 2026, was found dead in the Bagutari River in Sto. Tomas, Isabela, on October 1. The discovery followed an overnight search conducted by police and rescuers after the child's clothing and slippers were found near the river in Barangay Baligatan.

The child, who reportedly lived near the river and had a special condition, had gone out to play with other children before being reported missing. Authorities are currently documenting the incident to determine the exact circumstances and cause of death.