What began as a routine moment in the digital age—just stepping outside to get a better cellphone signal—ended in unimaginable heartbreak.
An 18-year-old girl, Rona Mae Patricio, has been found dead in Makilala, Cotabato, leaving her community in shock and mourning.
Disappearance Sparks Worry in the Community
Rona Mae, a resident of Purok Durian in Barangay Old Bulatukan, reportedly left her home around 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.
Like many in rural areas where network coverage can be patchy, she simply stepped out to find a better spot to connect. Sadly, she never came back.
Her family became concerned when she didn’t return home that night.
The search for her ended in tragedy the following morning.
Body Discovered in Local Creek Near Boy Scout Camp
On the morning of June 11, at around 7:30 a.m., a concerned local resident stumbled upon a disturbing sight: Rona Mae’s lifeless body was discovered in a creek within the compound of the Boy Scout Camp in Old Bulatukan.
Authorities were immediately alerted.
PCMS Richie Gesulga of the Makilala Police confirmed the identity of the victim and shared early findings with the public.
Details Point to Possible Foul Play
Initial police observations revealed that Rona Mae was no longer wearing her top or bottom clothing when she was found.
Her body bore significant trauma—most notably, deep wounds to both the front and back of her head, injuries that are believed to have caused her death.
While investigators have not yet confirmed whether she was sexually assaulted, authorities are awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination to clarify the circumstances surrounding her death.
Investigators Looking Into Last Contacts
As part of the investigation, Makilala police are now reviewing her phone data and communication records.
They’re trying to determine who Rona Mae might have been chatting with or calling before she vanished.
Authorities believe those conversations may hold critical clues about what happened to her in the moments before her tragic end.
Community Grieves and Demands Justice
News of Rona Mae’s death has shaken residents of Makilala.
What makes it even more painful is how routine her final action was—something as simple and ordinary as trying to get a signal.
Her story is now a stark reminder of how quickly an ordinary moment can spiral into a nightmare.
As the investigation continues, the community is calling for justice and answers, while Rona Mae’s family mourns a life lost far too soon.