Missing Davao City journalist found dead

DAVAO CITY, Philippines  – A veteran journalist who had been missing for almost a week was found dead in Gov. Generoso town in Davao Oriental, about 125 kilometers away from this city.

The body of Saturnino Apoyon, 75, a former bureau chief of the Philippine News Agency here, was reportedly found floating in the coastal town.

However, the cause of his death was still unclear as his remains have yet to be brought to this city where his family resides.

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte confirmed the death of Apoyon, as his family sought her help in finding him since his disappearance last May 19.

Duterte said she had made arrangements for the immediate transport of Apoyon’s body to Davao City where it was expected yesterday.

She said Apoyon’s family refused to have his body autopsied by the authorities.

Reports said Apoyon was last seen at Victoria Plaza here a day after he was reported missing.

Apoyon’s wife, Annie, earlier said her husband left their house last May 19 and had not returned since.

Apoyon, who hailed from Bohol, was also known for his Bol-anon poems which became famous in the 1970s.