Authorities have identified two of the 10 decomposing bodies recently discovered inside an unlicensed funeral home in Sta. Cruz, Manila.
Decomposing bodies wrapped in white plastic (Photo from Manila Department of Social Welfare)
Decomposing bodies wrapped in white plastic (Photo from Manila Department of Social Welfare)
One of the victims was confirmed to be Leah Tongol, who was reportedly killed in Malate last April. According to her family, they were unable to retrieve her remains after the funeral home demanded P150,000, an amount they could not afford.
Another body was identified as Rennan Pornobi, who was also slain in Ermita in April. His remains were initially brought home for a wake but were taken back by the funeral home after his family failed to settle the outstanding balance of P85,000.
Authorities said both families have since reclaimed their loved ones. Tongol’s remains were cremated and returned to her family, while Pornobi was given a proper burial.
The remaining eight corpses remain unidentified and are now under the care of the Manila North Cemetery. Officials said efforts are ongoing to establish their identities.
One family visited the authorities hoping to locate their deceased relative, but sadly, their loved one was not among the recovered bodies.
They claimed the funeral home had demanded P180,000 before releasing the remains.
More corpses hidden
Officials fear that the now-closed funeral home may still be hiding additional bodies. Coordination is ongoing with its owner, who has reportedly committed to releasing any remaining bodies.
One grieving family was shocked to discover that their relative’s body was already in an advanced stage of decomposition—despite previous assurances from the funeral home that it had been properly embalmed.
Shut down over violations
The funeral parlor was closed on Wednesday, July 30, by the Manila Sanitary Department for operating without a valid business permit and for the improper handling and storage of human remains.
Authorities said all 10 bodies were discovered wrapped in white plastic, with a strong foul odor pervading the facility. The funeral home also lacked refrigeration and other morgue-grade equipment, leading to the rapid decomposition of the corpses.
All the recovered remains have since been transferred to a licensed funeral home for proper storage and care.
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