By Helen Castaño | 07:55 PM July 23, 2025
BATUAN, BOHOL – Police are seeking an autopsy to uncover the cause of death of two elderly sisters who were found lifeless inside their home in Barangay Cabacnitan on Tuesday afternoon, July 22.
The victims were identified as Felicitas Bahande, 84, and Januaria Bahande, 78 who were both retired public school teachers. They were unmarried and lived together in their home.
Police Captain Victor Tagsa Jr., chief of the Batuan Police Station, said the bodies were discovered in an advanced state of decomposition after concerned relatives alerted when they were not seen for many days.
Responding officers found Felicitas lying on the floor while Januaria was slumped near the doorway.
“There were no signs of forced entry or struggle, and all valuables inside the house, including cash amounting to P53,000, a cellphone, a watch, and bank documents, were found intact,” said Tagsa.
Despite the absence of foul play indicators, the unexplained nature of their deaths has prompted police and the victims’ relatives to request an autopsy. The Batuan PNP has already coordinated with the Regional Forensic Unit and the Bohol Provincial Police Office for clearance and assistance in conducting the procedure.
“We are waiting for feedback from the regional forensic office regarding our request for autopsy,” Tagsa said. “We are exploring all possible angles to determine what really caused their deaths. If foul play is confirmed, we will ensure justice is served.”
The sisters were last seen alive on July 14 during a religious gathering. Their remains were buried on the same day they were discovered, but police say exhumation will be done once approval is granted.
Investigation is ongoing.
