By I. Inojales | 12:15 PM November 04, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY – The rights and identity of a 15-year-old child allegedly involved in the killing of his mother in Barangay Looc, Panglao, Bohol, must be protected despite the seriousness of the incident, Mayor Edgardo “Boy” Arcay said.
In a statement, Arcay reminded the public, particularly social media users, not to publish or circulate the minor’s name, photographs, personal information, or any material that could reveal the child’s identity.
He stressed that the child, classified as a Child in Conflict with the Law (CICL), is entitled to confidentiality and protection under Republic Act No. 9344, or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, as amended by RA 10630.
“The seriousness of an alleged offense does not give us the right to disregard the protection afforded to a child under the law,” Arcay said.
The mayor’s statement came following the death of a mother in Barangay Looc, allegedly at the hands of her 15-year-old child.
Arcay expressed his condolences to the victim’s family and acknowledged the community’s concerns, saying the municipal government respects the ongoing legal process and supports the Philippine National Police and other authorities in ensuring that justice is served.
He said he had directed concerned municipal offices to coordinate with the PNP, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO), and other appropriate agencies to ensure that the case is handled in accordance with the law.
Arcay emphasized that the local government has a responsibility both to support the victim’s family in seeking justice and to uphold the rights of the minor.
He also appealed to the public not to allow anger, speculation, and irresponsible social media posts to interfere with the administration of justice.
The mayor said the tragedy should serve as a reminder of the importance of responsible parenting, proper guidance at home and in school, emotional support for children, and the community’s shared responsibility to protect families.
“Justice must prevail, but the law must also be respected,” Arcay said.
The body of 46-year-old Rhea Hormiguera was found on October 31 after a neighbor noticed blowflies swarming around an abandoned septic tank.
The 15-year-old son admitted to killing his mother with a hammer following an argument at their home.
Investigators said the dispute began when Hormiguera reprimanded her son for skipping classes. The argument allegedly turned physical, prompting the teenager to grab a hammer and repeatedly strike her mother in the head.
After the attack, he allegedly dragged her body about 30 meters from their house, dumped it into the abandoned septic tank, and covered it with stones.
