The Philippine National Police has launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the motive behind the killing of a woman whose body was found inside a storage box in Camarines Norte.

PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered local police units in Camarines Norte to thoroughly probe the murder of Anelis Agocoy, 37, a resident of Barangay Bura, Catarman, Camiguin.

Nartatez confirmed that the primary suspect in the killing, identified as the victim’s live-in partner, has surrendered to authorities. The suspect turned himself in at the Rosario Municipal Police Station in Batangas on 7 January.

“We express our sincerest condolences to the family of the victim. No person deserves to be treated this way, and we in the Philippine National Police commit to ensuring that the person involved is held accountable for this gruesome crime,” Nartatez said.

He added that he has directed Camarines Norte police to ensure the safe transfer of the suspect to the proper detention facility and to continue protecting witnesses and the victim’s family.

Authorities have yet to establish the motive behind the killing, but Nartatez assured the public that several leads are being pursued to ensure the swift and fair resolution of the case.

According to Agocoy’s father, the victim and the suspect had a major argument prior to the incident.

“At present, the investigation is ongoing. There are several leads being looked into as to the possible motive, but we cannot confirm everything yet. Rest assured, we are working diligently to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this tragic incident,” Nartatez said.

The acting PNP chief reiterated the police force’s commitment to public safety and justice, adding that additional police personnel have been deployed in the community to maintain peace and order.

Agocoy’s body was discovered on Jan. 2 beneath the Pinagwarasan Bridge, inside a black storage box and wrapped in a blanket.

The PNP also called on the public to cooperate with law enforcement authorities and refrain from spreading unverified information that could hamper the ongoing investigation.