THE Bohol Police Provincial Office is continuing its investigation following the discovery of the lifeless bodies of two sisters -- both retired teachers -- inside their home in Purok 7, Barangay Cabacnitan, Batuan, Bohol.
The victims were identified as Felicitas Tacgos Bahandi, 84, and her younger sister Januaria, 78.
Based on the postmortem external examination conducted by Dr. Mark Johnuel Duavis, the municipal health officer of Batuan, both bodies were already in a state of decomposition.
It was estimated that they had been dead for over 72 hours before being discovered.
The cause of death remains undetermined -- whether it was due to external trauma or natural causes.
No wounds were found on the bodies during the limited external examination. However, relatives had reportedly mentioned that both women had a history of hypertension.
Duavis also noted that they cannot yet conclude whether foul play was involved, which is why he recommended that the bodies be subjected to a full autopsy.
The autopsy will be performed by the Philippine National Police Forensic Unit of Bohol for further forensic evaluation.
Based on the initial investigation of the Batuan Municipal Police Station, there were no signs of forced entry into the victims’ home.
Authorities also did not observe any weapons or sharp objects inside the house that could suggest a crime took place.
All belongings were intact, and no money was reported missing, indicating that only the two sisters were inside the house.
Relatives began to worry after not seeing the sisters for several days. Concerned neighbors were then asked to check on them.
Around 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, 2025, a neighbor entered the house and was shocked by the strong foul odor inside, similar to that of a dead rat.
Upon inspecting the bedroom, they found the sisters’ bodies lying on a bed, already in an advanced state of decomposition.
Despite the findings so far, police in Batuan are continuing their investigation by gathering statements from the victims’ neighbors. (AYB)