DAGUPAN CITY – A seven-year-old girl reported missing in Asingan, Pangasinan Thursday was found dead in Bonuan Gueset here on Friday.
The body of the victim Portia from Asingan was discovered by a couple from the area.
Initial investigation said the victim was abducted in front of her house and forced into a white Toyota Fortuner.
Portia was described as a sweet little girl.
Her family appealed to netizens to stop sharing photos or videos about her.
“We kindly and urgently ask everyone to please stop sharing any videos or photos, especially the one at the beach. This is out of respect for the grieving family, especially her mother, and to honor the dignity of our angel,” they said.
“The family is devastated beyond words. She was a bright, loving child who deserved a life full of joy and safety. We will forever cherish her memory."
Her family said they are working closely with authorities to identify her assailants and bring them to justice.
"We will not stop until justice is served for our precious angel," they said.
The Pangasinan Police Provincial Office condemned the murder in a statement Friday.
Police Col. Arbel Mercullo, Pangasinan police officer-in-charge, in a statement, has directed concerned police stations and the Pangasinan police investigation unit to provide full assistance and conduct an in-depth investigation to hasten the resolution of the case.
“We will not rest until justice is served. The Pangasinan PNP will not tolerate such a heinous act, especially against an innocent child. To the perpetrator – wherever you are hiding, we will find you. You cannot escape the long arm of the law, and you will face the maximum penalty that justice demands,” Mercullo said.
Police called on people to cooperate by providing any relevant information that may help in the swift resolution of this case.