Tragedy Strikes Quiet Batuan Town
The peaceful community of Batuan in Bohol was shaken when two elderly sisters were found dead inside their home in Barangay Cabacnitan on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The two elderly sisters were longtime residents and well-known figures in the barangay.
The victims, Felicitas Bahande, 84, and Januaria Bahande, 78, were both retired public school teachers and had never married. Their sudden deaths stunned neighbors and locals alike.
Discovery and Initial Police Findings
Police Captain Victor Tagsa Jr., the local police chief, reported that authorities were alerted by barangay officials after a concerned relative mentioned the sisters had not been seen for several days. Upon entering the house, officers were met with a foul odor signaling something was wrong.
“We found two bodies already in an advanced state of decomposition,” Tagsa shared. The sisters were last seen alive on Monday, July 14, during a chapel event in their village.
Despite the grim discovery, police noted there were no signs of forced entry or struggle. The main door was unlocked but the house appeared undisturbed. Valuable possessions, including Php 53,000 in cash, a wristwatch, a mobile phone, and bank passbooks with substantial amounts, remained untouched, suggesting robbery was unlikely the motive.
Health Officer’s Assessment and Burial
Based on the condition of the bodies, the municipal health officer estimated the sisters had been deceased for four to five days before being found. Felicitas was discovered lying on the floor, while Januaria was slumped near the door.
The sisters were laid to rest at the Batuan Catholic Cemetery at 7 p.m. the same day they were found.
Relatives Seek Autopsy
Relatives of the Bahande sisters have requested an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Police are awaiting approval from the proper authorities and coordination with the regional forensic unit to proceed with exhumation.
Community Mourns the Loss
Anselma “Ansing” Baguio-Balay, 72, a close neighbor and longtime friend of Felicitas, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. She last saw the sisters on July 14.
“They were good people,” Ansing said. “It’s painful to lose them this way.”
Authorities continue their investigation but have found no immediate evidence of foul play. The case remains open as police gather more information.
For more news and updates on the two elderly sisters, visit Filipinokami.com.
