Charred body identified

CEBU, Philippines - Homicide investigators have already identified the man whose charred body was found inside a warehouse razed by fire in Barangay San Roque, Cebu City last Saturday.

The victim was identified as Romel Altabarino, 30, single, and a native of Bais City, Negros Oriental. He is said to be suffering from mental illness.

 Altabarino is believed to have broken into the warehouse rented by EMBL Enterprises and Du Ek Sam Incorporated.

Police Officer 2 Rommel Bancog, homicide investigator, said the victim was previously taken into custody by the Philippine Coast Guard for swimming at a restricted area.

He was turned over to the Barangay Hall of San Roque on Thursday where he disappeared. Bancog said some of the residents in the area have seen him hopping from one container van to another. He was reportedly chased by some of the residents because he was seen stealing the laundry.

  Altabarino reportedly disappeared and may have broken into the warehouse through a small hole at the roof. Bancog said they found out that a portion of the warehouse did not have a roof where the victim may have gained entry.

“Posible nga na-trap ni siya didto kay ang gwardiya, ingon man siya nga dili sad sila pirmi mag-check sa sulod. Mosulod ra man kuno siya og naa’y kuhaon,” said Bancog.

He was identified because of the sweatshirt he was wearing when he was last seen by the barangay officials.

His charred body was brought to Cebu Rolling Hills Memorial Chapel in Mandaue City. 

Fire investigators are still conducting further investigation to determine the cause of the fire that razed at least 70 motorcycles owned by Du Ek Sam Incorporated and all furniture imported by EMBL Enterprises.  (FREEMAN)