2 bodies found in Cebu City, Talisay; police probe link

POLICE are investigating a possible link between two men found shot to death in separate locations in Cebu City and Talisay City in less than 12 hours.

The similar circumstances, which suggest the men were victims of summary executions, are raising concerns about violent crime. The discoveries have prompted a coordinated investigation between the two city police forces.

The Quiot discovery

• A hiker found the first body in the mountainous part of Sitio Antuanga, Barangay Quiot, Cebu City, at 4:51 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025.

• The victim had gunshot wounds and bruises on his face. The only clue to his identity is a tattoo on his chest with the name “Rhemhar Tabura.”

• Police believe he was killed elsewhere and dumped there. Capt. Charisma Gonzales, information officer of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), noted that while investigators found empty bullet shells, there was very little blood at the scene.

The Talisay discovery

• The second body was found on a roadside in Purok Bamboo, Sitio Campo 5, Barangay Manipis, Talisay City, around 3:30 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15.

• His hands were tied with scotch tape and his head was covered with a jacket. He had been shot multiple times.

The bottom line: With few initial leads and no identification for the second victim, investigators face the immediate challenge of first identifying the men and then determining a motive and whether a single perpetrator or group is responsible for both killings.

What’s next: The CCPO is coordinating with the Talisay City Police Station. They urge anyone with missing relatives to contact authorities to help with the identification process. / AYB, JDG