• THERESA MAE DULMAN
A newborn baby boy was rescued late Saturday night, March 14, after being found abandoned in the dirt behind a home in Purok Kawayanan, Barangay Cabug, Bacolod City.
Bacolod Police Station 9 Women and Children’s Protection Desk confirmed that the infant was discovered at approximately 10:30 p.m. by Rene Trenuela, a resident in the area.
Trenuela said he initially dismissed scratching sounds outside as a stray animal, but eventually investigated after hearing the faint cries of a child.
The infant was found lying face down on the ground without any clothing or protection.
According to police reports, the baby still had his umbilical cord attached and was covered in dirt, blood, and visible ant bites on his face.
The Department of Social Services and Development head Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga said that they already deployed a social worker to manage the case.
Mangga said they will be following the protocols of Republic Act 11767, also known as the Foundling Recognition and Protection Act, and coordinate with the National Authority for Child Care to ensure the child’s legal protection and future care.
While the baby recovers, authorities and barangay officials are actively searching for the mother, who faces potential charges for child abuse once identified.
Mangga said that the infant will remain in the pediatric ward for four to seven days to receive antibiotics and treatment.*
