Skeletal remains of woman slain by son-in-law recovered

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May 24, 2026 | 12:00am

COTABATO, Philippines — The skeletal remains of a woman allegedly killed by her son-in-law eight months ago were found on Friday in a swamp in this city.

The remains of the victim, identified as Arbaina Guiapar, 40, were found in Barangay Kalanganan 2 after her daughter, Norhana, sought the help of barangay officials and the police.

Norhana told police that her mother was strangled to death last year by her husband, Omar Balabagan, 28.

Col. Jibin Bongcayao, Cotabato City police director, said the killing occurred at the house of the victim in Barangay Kalanganan 2 in October.

Bongcayao said that after disposing of the body of the victim, Balabagan took Norhana to his hometown in Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte.

Norhana said her husband threatened to kill her if she would try to return to Cotabato City.

The suspect reportedly did not allow Norhana to use a phone and prevented her from mingling with their neighbors and other people in Talitay.

Bongcayao said that Norhana managed to escape from her husband on Tuesday and returned to Cotabato City where she reported the matter to barangay officials and the police.

A manhunt has been launched against Balabagan who fled Talitay after finding out that Norhana has returned to Cotabato City.