Family of 9-year-old girl seeks justice over her death

KIDAPAWAN CITY — The family of Lady Jazzy Maribao, a nine-year-old girl who was found dead in Barangay New Israel, Makilala, Cotabato, is pleading for justice after her tragic death sent shockwaves through the community.

Lady Jazzy, who had been missing for three days, was discovered on Tuesday in a grassy area near a canal. Local residents, alongside her family, had been searching tirelessly after she was last seen at home on Saturday evening.

Jenard Cañada, a local resident, found her body. “I followed the smell and thought it was a dead animal because the body was covered with grass,” Cañada told authorities.

An initial investigation revealed that the child had been strangled and struck with a hard object. An autopsy confirmed traumatic injuries, and police are investigating further evidence suggesting foul play. Clothing believed to belong to a potential suspect was also recovered near the crime scene.

Makilala Police Station spokesperson PCMS Riche Gesulga shared that the victim sustained severe injuries, and authorities are pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the perpetrator.

Maria Estella Mayordomo, the victim’s grandmother, expressed deep sorrow and anger over the incident. “I cannot accept what happened to my granddaughter. All we want is justice for her,” she said tearfully.

The victim’s burial is scheduled for Sunday as the investigation continues. The local community has rallied behind the family, demanding accountability and safety measures to protect children from similar tragedies.