Missing teen found dead in Panabo City

DAVAO CITY – A 14-year-old girl who was reported missing was found lifeless in a buried hole in Purok 4, Napo, Barangay Little Panay, Panabo City, Davao del Norte, on the night of March 1, 2025.

A report from the Davao del Norte Police Provincial Office identified the victim as alias Christine, a resident of Panabo City.

Police said the victim was last seen with a man later identified as Mark Paltinca Bernabe, 40, a resident of Purok 3-C, Barangay San Francisco, Panabo City. The suspect was taken into police custody following the discovery.

The victim’s father, Gerry, had reported her missing at the Panabo City Police Station on February 28, 2025.

Authorities found the girl’s remains in a newly covered hole on land allegedly owned by the suspect. Investigators are now conducting further inquiries into the case.

The Panabo City Police confirmed that Bernabe is in their custody as the investigation continues.