A decomposing body discovered in a Cebu City waterway has been formally identified, shedding light on a suspected case of summary execution, locally known as 'salvage'.
Decomposing Body Discovered in Pahina San Nicolas
On the afternoon of January 2, 2026, residents of Barangay Pahina San Nicolas in Cebu City reported a foul odor emanating from a local river. The source was the body of a man, already in an advanced state of decomposition. The stench was so pronounced it alerted people living nearby, leading to the grim discovery.
Victim Identified Through Tattoo, Family Reveals Troubled Past
The victim was later identified as Miguel Dela Calzada Jr., 35, an unemployed resident of Sityo Sangi, Barangay Calajo-an in Minglanilla City. His mother was able to recognize him primarily through a distinctive tattoo on his hand. She last saw her son alive on December 27, 2025, when he asked her for 100 pesos before leaving home, never to return.
In a heartbreaking revelation, the mother admitted her son had a history of drug addiction, which had been a source of constant worry. Miguel Dela Calzada Jr. also had a criminal record, having been in and out of jail for cases involving chicken theft and motorcycle carnapping. At the time of his death, he reportedly had a pending warrant of arrest.
Family Forgoes Police Probe, Chooses Dignified Burial
Upon claiming the body, the family observed what appeared to be a gunshot wound on his neck, supporting initial suspicions of a summary execution. Despite the violent nature of his death, the grieving family has made a difficult decision.
They have chosen not to request a formal police investigation into the killing. However, they will still subject the body to an autopsy to conclusively determine the exact cause of death. The family expressed profound gratitude for recovering Miguel's remains, allowing them to provide him with a proper and decent burial, which they see as their final act of love and closure.
