DILG: Missing student likely died by suicide

The death of a De La Salle University law student found in Naic, Cavite, on 21 June, is likely a suicide, according to preliminary findings, said Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Monday.

The student, identified as Anthony Granada of DLSU’s Bonifacio Global City campus in Taguig, had been missing since 8 June, with a report filed with Taguig police on 15 June. His body was discovered in an advanced state of decomposition in a vacant lot in Barangay Sapa, Naic.

“We still need the report of the final autopsy, but findings point to suicide,” Remulla said, as he disclosed that Granada allegedly ingested a liquid drain declogger mixed with milk tea, possibly to mask the corrosive taste.

Remulla added that Granada reportedly attempted to vomit the substance, but it had already caused severe internal damage, burning his internal organs, as well as the skin on his face and chest.

He also revealed that an X-ray was not needed because half of Granada’s upper body was already “molten” by the chemical.

“He has nothing to do with that property at all where his lifeless body was found. The gate just happened to be open, so he went inside. It seems he took a tricycle from the resort he visited, got off at that nearby corner, and likely entered the first open gate he came across,” Remulla said.

“There are no gunshot wounds on his head or body, and no injuries on his legs or lower parts. There were also no signs of hazing. As hard as it is to accept, the evidence points to suicide,” he added.

The Naic police have transported Granada’s remains to Imperial Funeral Homes in Barangay San Agustin, Trece Martires, Cavite, for autopsy and DNA testing. An investigation is being conducted by the Forensic Unit of Cavite Province.

Investigators found a plastic bottle labeled “Drain Clog Free,” a chemical substance used to dissolve grease, near the body. Granada’s personal belongings, including his cellphone and items in his backpack, were found intact and have since been turned over to his family.

Granada’s body was discovered on the fourth day of search operations and CCTV footage review conducted by various regional and provincial intelligence and police units, along with barangay officials and Granada’s family.

His father identified the body based on clothing and personal belongings found at the scene.